While rookie Patrick Peterson is grabbing most of the attention, another first-year player is trying to make a big transition.

Sam Acho was the Cardinals’ fourth round selection, and the Texas product is trying to transition from defensive end to linebacker in Arizona’s 3-4 defense.

“All I’ve been working on is basically standing up as an outside linebacker and working on dropping into coverage,” Acho told Gary Mihoces of USA Today. “I think every day I’m out here I get more comfortable.”

The linebacker has veterans Joey Porter and Clark Haggans to learn from.

“I basically just try to be a sponge around them,” Acho said. “Just suck up all the information they know and the ins and outs of the defense and all the nuances.”

While Acho is waiting for his chance to make a difference on the field, off the field he’s already made an impact.

Acho’s parents co-founded Living Hope Ministries of North Dallas, a group that leads an annual trip to Africa with 20 to 30 doctors, nurses and other missionaries.

The rookie usually makes the trip, but was unable to this year due to the uncertainty surrounding the NFL lockout.

“Next year, I definitely have plans on going,” Acho said. “Hopefully I can bring some Cardinals with me.”

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