An analytical look at the Cleveland Browns linebacker group

Sione Takitaki, Second year: 6-foot-1, 238 pounds

Sione Takitaki seems to be in a weird place with his NFL job. Being drafted in the third round, in what experts said was “a little high,” Takitaki was drafted by the old regime. Unfortunately for him, he doesn’t have much to show in his rookie campaign.

Takitaki played in 15 games this past year but only started in one. He mostly played special teams, however, as he played 57 percent of the special teams snaps and only about 100 defensive snaps. Of those snaps, he only made 21 tackles, including 14 solo tackles.

Other than that, there isn’t much to say besides him having a low missed tackle percentage of only 4.5 percent, but since he played so little of actual defense, it’s hard to really get a read on if it’s actually that low. It’s hard to truly see how Takitaki will make an impact or mark on the team.

Takitaki is still raw and will have to improve his skills in order to see the field more. He often over pursues his target, but does fly all around the field. Training camp is approaching and offseason workout sessions are starting soon, so this new regime should be getting a good glance at him.

It’s hard to know what this regime will think of him, however. Preseason will be the true determining factor if he sees the playing field more. If he plays well, there’s a chance he will. But if he struggles, he could be left in the dust.