The New Orleans Saints are doing a little regrouping at the linebacker position with
injuries to Martez Wilson and Victor Butler being out with injuries. Butler tore his ACL
during Organized Training Activities and Wilson dislocated his left elbow Monday in practice.
Wilson is expected to be out two to four weeks. Saints' 10-year vet Will Smith is making the
transition this preseason training camp, moving from his starting end position to a linebacker
spot. Smith has shed about 10 pounds trying to improve his quickness at the position in
defensive coordinator Rob Ryan's new 3-4 scheme. Both Ryan and head coach Sean Payton have
praised Smith's transition during training camp.
Smith said, "It really hasn't been that tough of a transition. Overall, I would look at the
position as just an extension from defensive end."
Saints fans will have an opportunity to check out the team Saturday morning in the Black and
Gold scrimmage, which is set for an 8:50 start time with the gates opening up at 8 o'clock. The
scrimmage is open to the public and there is no admission charge so Saints enthusiasts will have
another chance to see the team before they begin the preseason, hosting the Kansas City Chiefs,
Friday Aug. 9th in the Mercedes-Benz Super Dome.
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