Entering his senior year, Cj Johnson's transition from Defensive end to linebacker was a little unexpected, but it certainly makes sense. Johnson was recruited as a five-star linebacker out of high school. He had the size to play the position , but as a freshman it became obvious he would be a bigger asset at defensive end. The Rebels needed a pass rusher, and Johnson was that. Through three years, Johnson showed himself to be formidable at getting to the quarterback, though he wasn't elite at that.
Last season, Marquis Haynes emerged as a freshman All-American with seven sacks.