Jeff Swinger-USA TODAY Sports
Pita Taumoepenu conference call with the media
Apr 29, 2017 at 2:43 PM
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"I'm going to bring a lot of passion. I'm super excited for this opportunity. I'm just really grateful for it and I can't wait to come out there and give everything I've got. I have a lot of passion and I'm ready to do whatever it takes to help the Niners win another Super Bowl."
What do you know about the 49ers defensive scheme and how you might be able to fit into it?
"I know it's going to be like the 4-3 style this year. I feel like I'll fit into outside linebacker, pass rushing, maybe a WILL backer or SAM. But, I'm super excited and I can't wait to play whatever they want me to play. So, I'm excited."
Do you think the biggest asset you bring to the NFL is your ability to get after the quarterback?
"Oh, yeah. It's the biggest thing. I have a great ability to get after the quarterback. It's what I do and I have a lot of passion for it."
What do you know about RB Joe Williams?
"He's a great football player. I remember meeting him two years ago. He's a great guy and he works hard. He works hard and he always gives everything he's got to help his teammates. So, he's a team guy."
You said that getting after the quarterback is what you do. Why do you do it so well?
"I have a lot of passion for it. I grew up back in Tonga and used to work in the farms with my grandpa and I always had the high motor ever since I was little. I always worked hard basically my whole life. When I moved back to America and I saw football and I kind of see pass rushing, getting to the quarterback is a way that I can express myself. I always feel like I have a high motor. I never stop. That's basically it. So, I never stop and I've always felt like I've always been good at it. I'm looking forward to joining the Niners and help them."
You have some family in the area?
"Yes. My family is living in Monterey right now. I live in Monterey, California right now which is not too far from you guys. So, I'm super excited for it."
Is that where you are right now? Monterey?
"Yes, sir. This is where my mom lives."
Were you able to come to the facility here in Santa Clara and visit the 49ers?
"No, I wasn't. I didn't get the opportunity to come and visit."
Did you take any pre-draft visits around the NFL?
"Yeah. I took a visit to the Pittsburgh Steelers and then I also had two workouts with the Falcons and Patriots."
So, did the 49ers lead on that they were interested in you?
"I think I got like one phone call and they asked me about my contact and the phone number for the draft. So, I didn't really know. I never thought about it. I thought I might get picked up by the Ravens or the Steelers, but I'm surprised and I'm just so happy."
* Transcript provided by the San Francisco 49ers
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