Alabama linebacker Nico Johnson was moved to the “Sam” spot at Tuesday’s practice after spending last year in the inside linebacker role, the Mobile Press Register reported Wednesday.

Johnson, a former Andalusia High School stand out, is competing with Chris Jordan, Jerrell Harris and other players for the starting role before the Sept. 4 start against San Jose State.

In the Press Register, Alabama coach Nick Saban said the move for Johnson to the “Sam” position isn’t “permanent.”

“It’s just a day-to-day thing,” Saban said. “We’re just trying to see who can do what, and where we can get the best guys on the field so we can put the best 11 guys out there. But those are not permanent moves.”

Johnson is entering his sophomore year playing for the Crimson Tide.