Rufus

Johnson

Johnson (6-foot-5 1/4, 272) is a bit of a ‘tweener for the Saints’ 3-4 defense. At small school Tarleton State, Johnson recorded ten sacks and 17.5 tackles for loss as a senior. He’ll likely focus on special teams as a rookie.

Johnson (6-foot-5 1/4, 272) earned 2012 Lone Star Conference D-Lineman of the Year honors after posting 10 sacks and 17.5 tackles for loss as a senior. He ran a 4.75 forty with a 1.62 ten-yard split at the pre-draft Super Regional Combine in Dallas. The Saints have recently hit on several small-schoolers and may have found another gem in Johnson. He was plenty productive at the lower level and possesses obvious size and athleticism.

The active/NFI list is the same as active/PUP; players can be activated from the list at any time in camp. Stills is a fifth-rounder who’s unlikely to see significant snaps this season, but he does factor into the Saints’ long-term plans. Johnson and Martin are ‘tweener 3-4 outside linebackers who figure to see time on special teams if they make the roster. Despite failing their physicals, all three players should be ready at some point in training camp.

He’s practicing at three-technique tackle in Rob Ryan’s sub-packages. Johnson played outside linebacker as a rookie, but is better suited on the line at 6'5/272. He’s competing for a roster spot as a nickel and dime pass rusher.