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Former college football players across the country are working to impress NFL scouts in a series of all-star games.
In these contests it’s usually more important to impress in practice than in the game itself, which is what former Michigan Wolverines running back De’Veon Smith is doing in the Shrine Bowl.
"I thought De'Veon Smith had a good first day. I was impressed with him that, in the passing game at 228 pounds, how quick-footed he was," said NFL Network draft expert Mike Mayock.
"He did a nice job against some linebackers in one-on-one drills. When they're in shorts and it's one-on-one pass drills, the running back should win on a linebacker. But you try to look at the skill set, the traits, and what I saw was quick feet and change of direction. And he has that at 228 pounds. He's got quick feet and showed soft hands."
Smith turned in his best season for UM in 2016, rushing for 846 yards on 181 carries with 10 touchdowns. He’s projected as a late-round pick in the NFL Draft or maybe an undrafted free agent, so this week is hugely important for him.
If you’re looking to watch the actual game, the East-West Shrine Bowl will be played Saturday at Tropicana Field at 3 p.m. ET, and broadcast on NFL Network.