Defensive end Chris Smith, who was fighting for a Jaguars roster spot just a week ago, worked with the first team in practice Sunday.
Smith said he was surprised when the coaches told him to play with the first team at the right end or Leo position in 11 on 11 drills to replace Andre Branch, who suffered an MCL injury against the Detroit Lions last Friday night.
Smith may come off the field on third downs when veteran Chris Clemons plays outside and Ryan Davis, who can play the Leo, moves inside.
Drafted on the fifth round last year, Smith played in just seven games and seemed a long shot to make the team this year when they drafted Dante Fowler to play the Leo position on the first round.