AP

One year ago, Drew Smith was working with his University at Albany teammates, trying to get ready for the season opener against Colgate.

This season, Smith is hoping just to make the team -- in the NFL -- with the Buffalo Bills.

Smith went undrafted after finishing off a terrific career for the Great Danes, but was signed as a free agent by Buffalo and invited to training camp at St. John Fisher College, in Rochester.

He's listed as a fullback and fighting for a precious roster spot with the Bills.

Smith has already started to make a name for himself, catching a touchdown from fellow rookie EJ Manuel, in a scrimmage and making one catch in the Bills first preseason game against Indianapolis.

Smith's success at the highest level hasn't surprised his former offensive coordinator Ryan McCarthy.

“He’s just a guy that everybody we played, whether it was Youngstown State, Maine, New Hampshire, they all knew exactly who that guy was.”

Smith rushed for more than 1,000 yards, as a junior and a senior for UAlbany, and while he wasn't playing against talent like he'll see in the NFL, his 6-foot-2, 225-pound frame is certainly big league.

“He looks like he belongs to me," McCarthy said. "He looks like one of those guys. I would not be surprised if he makes that roster.”

Smith's versatility could help his chances to make the roster. For the Great Danes, he played quarterback, running back, fullback, receiver and was on special teams. 

“I think the NFL teams want to see that on tape, see a guy moving around,” said McCarthy. 

Smith is a guy who certainly has the looks of a pro, but now he's hoping his play will keep him on the field for the Bills. 

“Everything I’ve heard is he has a legitimate shot to make the team," McCarthy said. "I hope nothing but the best for him. He’s the most versatile player I’ve every coached since I’ve been here."

AP

University at Albany senior offensive lineman Anthony Bazzoffi talks about the team's season opener against Colgate.

Here is a link to a story on the promotion of offensive coordinator Ryan McCarthy, who was elevated to associate head coach, on Tuesday.

Here is a link to a story in the Utica Observer-Dispatch, previewing the Colgate football season.