Former UConn stars Shamar Stephen and Yawin Smallwood combined for seven tackles as they both made their professional debuts last night.

Stephen had a team-high five tackles in Minnesota's 10-6 win over Oakland in the preseason opener for both teams. The game featured three former UConn defensive stars as Sio Moore had two tackles including a sack and Tyvon Branch three tackles for Oakland.

Smallwood had a pair of tackles in Atlanta's 16-10 win over Miami while Robert McClain finished with two tackles as well for the Falcons.

Danny Lansanah continued his impressive play in the preseason for Tampa Bay as he led the Buccaneers with four tackles in a 16-10 loss to Jacksonville. In the same game Jordan Todman failed to take the advantage of the absence of Jacksonville' No. 1 tailback as he managed just five yards on five carries.

Lawrence Wilson had one tackle in his debut with the St. Louis Rams