The first day of Senior Bowl practices is in the books and the players were able to give a sneak peak to what their games and skill sets entail. Even though each team practiced in shells (helmet, shoulder pads and shorts), they were put into competitive situations where they could showcase their talent. The North and South squads had similar practices as they allowed the defensive and offensive linemen to go to battle in run fit, inside run and one-on-one pass rush drills. Even though it was just the first day, there were numerous players who stood out from the rest.

North Team Practice

During the first practice of the day, a familiar face was able to once again stand out from the crowd. Za’Darius Smith, who dominated the East-West Shrine Game and practices, was able to have another productive day as he showcased his strength and hand work against the North Team offensive lineman. Smith not only played at his traditional defensive end spot, but he also took a few snaps inside at defensive tackle as well. The other North Team defensive lineman who looked fantastic was former Iowa defensive tackle Carl Davis. He was too quick for the interior offensive linemen and he showcased enough strength to hold up at the point-of-attack when they stopped his quickness.

One of the more impressive players on the North Team was center Max Garcia. He went to battle with the massive Danny Shelton and more than held his own. He showcased a great anchor, above average hands and good feet to get into good positions. One of the high profile offensive lineman on the North Team is T.J. Clemmings, but he had mixed results on the first day of practices. He had great success when he was run-blocking, but he really struggled when he was out on an island in one-on-one pass rush drills. Clemmings has a bad tendency to drop his head and over extend his arms, which leave him wide open for inside moves. Hopefully, he can clean up his pass set and bounce back tomorrow.

South Team Practice

Quite possibly the most dominant player inthe trenches among both teams was former Clemson defensive tackle Grady Jarrett. The South Team’s interior offensive linemen were no match for Jarrett’s impressive quickness and developed hand usage as he was in the backfield repeatedly in every drill. Jarrett is a player who came in as a mid-round type of player, but he could possibly boost his stock to early-day-two pick if he continues his stellar play. Another player in the trenches who flashed some impressive skills was Trey Flowers. He is known as a stout run-defender, but he was able to generate a lot of pressure with a smooth inside swim move to blow past the South Team’s offensive tackles.

It was a very mixed bag from the South Team offensive lineman as they all had some good moments and some bad. Former Florida State guard Tre Jackson appeared to have a productive day as he was able to showcase some quick feet and impressive anchor in pass-rush drills. Much like Clemmings, La’el Collins did his best in the run game, but struggled mightily in pass-rush one-on-ones. Some people have questions Collins’ ability to hold up as a left tackle because of his ability in pass protection, it will be paramount that he proves them wrong in the coming practices.

Football Insiders will continue to provide updates and content from the Senior Bowl Week, so be sure to check back consistently throughout the week.