



JACKSONVILLE – Senior writer John Oehser examines Day Nine of Jaguars 2016 Training Camp, with an eye on former WR Jimmy Smith's return to EverBank Field as part of 2016 Training Camp Alumni Day

Happy return

Jimmy Smith returned to EverBank Field Sunday.

That's not the first time that has happened, but it was the former Jaguars wide receiver's first appearance around the facility since the recent announcement that he will be inducted into the Pride of the Jaguars. That made this day special.

Smith, who played for the Jaguars from 1995-2005, will be inducted into the Pride at halftime of the Jaguars' game against the Minnesota Vikings at EverBank Field December 11.

"It hasn't set in just yet," Smith said after attending the Jaguars' practice Sunday with about 15 other alumni players. "I'm just glad to be back here with these fans. It's great to be out here."

Former quarterback Mark Brunell, punter Bryan Barker, guard Rick Tylski, linebacker Kyle Bosworth, left tackle Tony Boselli, defensive end Jeff Lageman, tight end Damon Jones, center Dave Widell, defensive lineman Renaldo Wynn, wide receiver Micah Ross, defensive end Jammie Kirlew, running back Deji Karim, linebacker Ed Thomas and safety Donovin Darius were among the alumni present.

"We still have that camaraderie," Smith said. "Once you retire from the NFL … that structure and camaraderie – trying to replace that is what's tough. It was good to be out there seeing Mark (Brunell) and Tony (Boselli) and a lot of the guys. It was great."

Smith spoke to fans throughout practice and signed autographs afterward.