Stampeders rookie Dagogo Maxwell put on a show in his first CFL action.

The 21-year-old used all his tools to put on an impressive outing during the Stampeders mock game Sunday afternoon at McMahon Stadium.

“It was great getting a little taste of what it’ll be like for that first game,” Maxwell said. “Being right out of university it helped to see a small sample of what live action CFL football is about.

“Come Friday it’ll be nice to get in the action and hit somebody.”

His strong play was highlighted by an interception coming off a Ricky Stanzi throw just past midfield, with the Nigerian native rising up and making the catch look all too easy.

“I’ve seen that formation and that route before this past week,” he said. “I was waiting for the receiver to break in and when he did I was right there and looked up and the ball was right there up for grabs.

“It’s all about reading the play and being in the right place at the right time which makes it look easier than it is.”

It was no surprise to see the defensive back come down with the ball, as Maxwell showed reliable hands as a former wide receiver in his college days with the University of Calgary for two seasons before transferring to UBC and transitioning to the defensive side of the ball.

Although it was a bit of an adjustment at first, Maxwell eased into the role just fine as he finished with 52 tackles, seven knockdowns and an interception.

“It was tough at first,” Maxwell said. “Being a former track athlete I was so used to just running forward. Going from going full speed in one direction to learning how to run backwards was an adjustment.

“I used everything I learn as a receiver to help me make the transition. It was little things that I would think about as a receiver that I remember to help me on the other side of the ball. I’m a versatile player who absorbs info quick and I hope to use that to my advantage to earn a roster spot.”