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There's no confusion in linebacker Rufus Johnson's mind as to why he was drafted by the New Orleans Saints.

An imposing 6 feet 5 and 272 pounds, the largest linebacker on the team, the converted defensive end knows he's here for one thing: Get to the quarterback.

"Pass rush is where I'm going to make my money," Johnson said.

The Saints took Johnson in the sixth round of the 2013 draft out of Tarleton State with the sole intention of moving him to the outside "Jack" linebacker position in new defensive coordinator Rob Ryan's 3-4 scheme.

The rookie is only the latest in a string of recent defensive-end-to-linebacker conversions Ryan has made since joining the team -- most notably linebackers Junior Galette, Martez Wilson and Will Smith.

"He's slowly adjusting to it, but he's doing well," Smith said. "He's making a lot of plays and he's making a lot of mistakes, but he's still making plays and he's still working hard."

Johnson said the position change isn't too difficult as he's essentially doing the same thing he did in the 4-3, just standing up prior to the snap.
New Orleans Saints linebacker Rufus Johnson talks about making the most of his opportunities at training camp Rufus Johnson wants to be a team leader for the rookies

"The 3-4 is kind of similar to the 4-3; I'm just standing up now," Johnson said. "I can drop back in coverage, that's no problem, but like I said, pass rushing is my big deal and that's what I'm focusing on right now. But, you've got to be able to do both in this league."

Read more: New Orleans Saints' rookie linebacker Rufus Johnson an imposing presence | NOLA.com

New Orleans Saints linebacker Rufus Johnson talks about making the most of his opportunities at training camp

Video: New Orleans Saints linebacker Rufus Johnson talks about making the most of his opportunities at training camp - Video | NOLA.com

BIGEASY504

If he picks it up man can you imagine that coming at Matty ICE-LESS Ryan!?

halloween 65

Yes I can!! And all the other qb.'s out there. It would be like a Mack truck hitting a Ugo. This guy is big.

dizzle88

SP has said he likes his pass rushing ability and for now he wants him to focus on that, bring him in on passing downs and let him get after the QB.

I'm excited to see him play

homerj07

Dear god. Imagine the possibilities!!!!

Seer1

RUFUSSS!!!

Seer1

Be makin' a slightly larger brown spot, that will.

hagan714

he is definitely our WTH was that pick for the year. lets see him play

Rugby Saint II

He's apparently making too many mistakes and that isn't allowable. PS maybe?

Danno

I think it was expected that he'd make a lot of mental mistakes being so raw. I wouldn't write him off just yet. Reports are he looks great rushing the passer.