What 2021 NFL draft means for Cleveland Browns linebackers

Sione Takitaki

The Cleveland Browns needed linebackers in 2019, and John Dorsey just so happened to draft two that year. The first was Sione Takitaki from BYU, drafted at pick No. 80 in round three. At the time the Browns drafted Takitaki they knew his athleticism was a question mark, but he had many other instincts to make up for it.

After limited action as a rookie, Takitaki was thrown into action in 2020 because of injuries and ended up starting 12 games. It’s not that Takitaki isn’t capable as an NFL linebacker, but the progression just hasn’t been as strong as many expected.

He still struggles in pass coverage and tends to over-commit on misdirection and play action plays which can leave the entire defense susceptible.

With two full seasons under his belt and being drafted by the Browns, this will be tough for some, but I would be surprised to see him on the roster in 2021. There will be too much talent ahead of him and I believe he will be on the outside looking in.

Mack Wilson

Perhaps the most intriguing player at the linebacker position for the Browns is Mack Wilson. He was the second linebacker drafted in 2019 in round five at pick No. 155. Because of an injury in 2019, Wilson ended up starting 14 games as a rookie and recorded 82 tackles showing a lot of potential. It was known quickly that he had jumped Takitaki on the depth chart.

However, a knee injury in training camp of 2020, never allowed him to find his rhythm. It’s unclear if he was never fully healthy, or if he truly took steps back from his rookie year. Wilson looked slower on the field and really struggled to make tackles.

If Wilson wasn’t healthy, look for him to compete and be fighting for some playing time. If play continues like last year, he will likely be on his way out of Cleveland as well. Wilson is a fan favorite, and I as many others hope it was his health last season that slowed him down.