Jaguars practice with Armada

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Two days before the Jaguars open training camp Dwayne Gratz and Peyton Thompson were testing their soccer skills at Armada practice.

"We didn't even get to do the full practice," Thompson said. "Just the 10 minute periods we have (Jaguars), we get breaks between plays. That first 30 minutes we were nonstop was tough. It's different for us with helmets and pads on and a different feel but the amount they run around is a whole different factor to the game."

Gratz, who became a fan of soccer watching the world cup, expected it to be tough and wasn't surprised that football shape is different than soccer shape.

"I respect the things that they do," Gratz said. " Football is not even close to this sport. They run 45 minutes straight. I played five minutes and I was tired. That's what I expected. But it was fun."

Armada goal keeper Miguel Gallardo faced both players in a penalty kick competition after practice and came away impressed with their respect for the game.

"Obviously you have to play soccer for a long time and practice everyday to show your skills," Gallardo said. "So for them to come out here and be good sports and understand that for the first time maybe they're not the best at what they're doing speaks volumes to who they are as people."

The Jaguars begin training camp Friday morning at 9:55 a.m. while the Armada host Minnesota Friday night at 7:30 p.m.