Saints' Austin Johnson, who came to NFL as linebacker, could step in for Saints as fullback
 

Austin Johnson says the New Orleans Saints' ideal fullback is a "thumper" who can make big hits, but also catch a pass or two.

Ever since Erik Lorig went down with a still-officially-undisclosed injury in early August, Johnson has been trying to prove to coaches that he can mix finesse with thump and win the job. In a few days, he'll find out if his work has been enough.

"I'm trying to prove myself every day," Johnson said. "When Lorig went down, I knew my workload would go up. I knew I had to step up and the coaches expected that. It's been a great opportunity for me."


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Re: Saints' Austin Johnson, who came to NFL as linebacker, could step in for Saints as fullback
 

You're looking at our FB for at least the first 3 games.

Re: Saints' Austin Johnson, who came to NFL as linebacker, could step in for Saints as fullback
 

A touchdown in the "Audition Game" certainly helped his chances.

Re: Saints' Austin Johnson, who came to NFL as linebacker, could step in for Saints as fullback
 

I like him...LB playing FB. What's not to like? Already has a preseason TD catch to boot.

Re: Saints' Austin Johnson, who came to NFL as linebacker, could step in for Saints as fullback
 

He has done his job as far as I'm concerned, starter material.

Re: Saints' Austin Johnson, who came to NFL as linebacker, could step in for Saints as fullback
 

Hes doing a fine job so far. Makes me wonder how much better our running game would do with Lorig in since he is supposed to be an upgrade.

Re: Saints' Austin Johnson, who came to NFL as linebacker, could step in for Saints as fullback
 

This guy hits the line fast and hard. He reminds me of Terrelle Smith.

Re: Saints' Austin Johnson, who came to NFL as linebacker, could step in for Saints as fullback
 

I really thought Lorig was gonna be the cog that got us some great runs. I believe that a good fullback makes all the difference.

Look at how well Eddie George did in Tennessee when he had Lorenzo Neal blocking for him and then how poor George did when Neal left.

I hope this kid has it in him.

Re: Saints' Austin Johnson, who came to NFL as linebacker, could step in for Saints as fullback
 

Lorig needs to take his time and heal. It looks like Johnson will do in a pinch.