Football players excited to showcase talents in All-Star games

Peter Holland, Jr. // Staff Writer

Three football players will represent FIU as they begin their NFL journey accepting an invitation to compete in different All-Star games.

Starting center Michael Montero will be in Daytona Beach to play in the Tropical Bowl on Sunday, Jan.15 at 9 a.m. He will be representing the National team facing against the American team. Just like his fellow linemen Joseph, the Miami native started all 12 games during the 2016 season. Both Joseph and Montero helped produced 4,503 total yards on offense. They both play a key role in the production of junior running back Alex Gardner, who is now FIU’s all-time leading rusher (2720 yards).

“[I’m] just excited to showcase my talent,” said Joseph. “I’m ready to compete. I’ve been working hard and it’s a very special feeling when everything you’ve dreamed is so close to grasping. I’ve kept my head down for a long time now and I’m anxious to prove myself.”

Defensive tackle Imarjaye Albury will play in the NFLPA Collegiate bowl in Carson, California, on Jan. 21 at 1 p.m.

“I’m excited I get to wear my college helmet one more time with that FIU logo on it,” said Albury. “I’m looking forward to representing the University well.“

Albury finished the 2016 season with 38 total tackles (13 solo), 1.5 tackles for loss and one sack. In his career, the three-year starter finished his FIU career with 76 total tackles (29 solo) with 5.5 tackles for loss 2.0 sacks in 36 games he played. The Miami native is looking forward to making a name for himself competing against other NFL prospects in an all-star scrimmage.

“Right now I am training amongst some of the best players in college football, and it’s awesome I get to be amongst them wearing the blue and gold every time I show up in the building,” said Albury.

Offensive Tackle Dieugot Joseph will represent FIU in the 92nd annual  East-West Shrine game in St.Petersburg, Florida, on the same day of the NFLPA Collegiate Bowl at 3 p.m. At left tackle, the Orlando native was selected as All-C-USA Honorable Mention this past season, starting all 12 games.

All three players will have the opportunity to impress scouts in the early process of playing professional football along with getting invited to the NFL Combine, which begins in February.

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