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Posted By: cfrs15 Browns pick Sione Takitaki 80th overall - 04/27/19 02:21 AM
https://twitter.com/akronjackson/status/1121962071564980226?s=21
Posted By: Hammer Re: Browns pick Sione Takitaki 80th overall - 04/27/19 02:22 AM
cool name
Terrible..




I'm totally kidding


I have no clue who this guy is. I just wanted to be the first guy to complain laugh
Originally Posted By: superbowldogg
Terrible..


Did you even see him play, he dominated against Wisconsin ... superconfused
Umm .........


OK. Trust Dorsey. Trust Dorsey.


I am not sure about this one though. crazy


Originally Posted By: PastorMarc
Originally Posted By: superbowldogg
Terrible..


Did you even see him play, he dominated against Wisconsin ... superconfused


I have no knowledge of this guy.


I was totally messing around.
Posted By: cfrs15 Re: Browns pick Sione Takitaki 80th overall - 04/27/19 02:25 AM
Originally Posted By: superbowldogg
Terrible..


1. We know nothing.

2. No one hits on 100% of their picks.
Posted By: CalDawg Re: Browns pick Sione Takitaki 80th overall - 04/27/19 02:26 AM
Head scratcher.

Quote:
Takitaki had a tough go early in his career at BYU. He was briefly kicked off the team after being involved in a dorm fight before his freshman year. However, his teammates voted him back onto the team, so he played in 11 games as a reserve (19 tackles, four for loss, three sacks) though he was suspended again later for one game after skipping a practice. Takitaki was suspended again to start his sophomore campaign after he allegedly stole property while working as a campus custodian. He reached a plea deal in the case, but was suspended for the second half of that season for violating team rules (he had 21 tackles, seven for loss, 3.5 sacks in six games). Takitaki was married in 2016, spending that year away from football to get his academics (and life) in order. He finished his career with the Cougars on a high note, though. He started 12 of 13 games in 2017, mostly at defensive end (79 tackles, 12.5 for loss, five sacks). Takitaki then was named a team captain for his senior season, starting all 13 games at linebacker and leading the Cougars with 118 tackles (nine for loss, three sacks) -- including 19 against Western Michigan in the team's bowl game. Takitaki was an All-CIF Southern Division pick and Defensive Player of the Year as a senior at Heritage High.


Link

Is he an end or an OLB?
Posted By: clwb419 Re: Browns pick Sione Takitaki 80th overall - 04/27/19 02:27 AM
BYU linebacker Sione Takitaki has made a remarkable turnaround, from being kicked off the team to being named a team captain

https://www.sltrib.com/sports/byu-cougars/2018/08/28/byu-linebacker-sione/


Draft Profile
https://www.nfl.com/prospects/sione-takitaki?id=32195441-4b11-1241-9b68-3c89f1b8a042

Player Bio
Takitaki had a tough go early in his career at BYU. He was briefly kicked off the team after being involved in a dorm fight before his freshman year. However, his teammates voted him back onto the team, so he played in 11 games as a reserve (19 tackles, four for loss, three sacks) though he was suspended again later for one game after skipping a practice. Takitaki was suspended again to start his sophomore campaign after he allegedly stole property while working as a campus custodian. He reached a plea deal in the case, but was suspended for the second half of that season for violating team rules (he had 21 tackles, seven for loss, 3.5 sacks in six games). Takitaki was married in 2016, spending that year away from football to get his academics (and life) in order. He finished his career with the Cougars on a high note, though. He started 12 of 13 games in 2017, mostly at defensive end (79 tackles, 12.5 for loss, five sacks). Takitaki then was named a team captain for his senior season, starting all 13 games at linebacker and leading the Cougars with 118 tackles (nine for loss, three sacks) -- including 19 against Western Michigan in the team's bowl game. Takitaki was an All-CIF Southern Division pick and Defensive Player of the Year as a senior at Heritage High.

Overview
From wild and immature to a married man and team captain, Takitaki's career at BYU has been filled with several downs and one, big upswing that started in 2017 after he sat out 2016 to "get his head right." He covers up for a lack of speed and instincts with a hard-charging style that leads to feast or famine tape at times. He has deficiencies that muddy his fit at all three linebacker spots, but his playing style is tailor-made for special teams which could be his ticket into a backup linebacker spot at the back-end of a roster.

Strengths
Matured from self-described "knucklehead" to team captain
Averaged almost 100 tackles, four sacks and 11.5 TFLs since 2017
Plays every play like it could be his last
Pursuit bursts with energy
Usually plays with a proactive demeanor vs run
Leveled up as block-slipper this season
Once he hits the gas, he's all in
Plays faster than timed speed
Short-area burst rushes him into place
Good reaction quickness to tackle from zone
Ready-made demeanor for special teams

Weaknesses
Erratic tackler in space
Juke steps can "break his ankles." Full-tilt style leads to over pursuit and excessive missed tackles
Hit-or-miss angles in pursuit
Lacks desired top-end speed to play WILL
Gets overly-involved at point of attack
Needs better play strength to punch and separate to the edge
Slides under blocks and out of plays
Gets trapped inside by bigger tight ends and loses contain
Slow to process from middle linebacker
Maturity issues cost him three suspensions and to miss 2016

Posted By: EveDawg Re: Browns pick Sione Takitaki 80th overall - 04/27/19 02:27 AM
John Dorsey knows more than the average bear.....
Surprised we reached with CGJ still on board
Posted By: cfrs15 Re: Browns pick Sione Takitaki 80th overall - 04/27/19 02:28 AM
Posted By: lampdogg Re: Browns pick Sione Takitaki 80th overall - 04/27/19 02:31 AM
Did we just draft a STer at 80?
Posted By: CalDawg Re: Browns pick Sione Takitaki 80th overall - 04/27/19 02:32 AM
Originally Posted By: GratefulDawg


I like the way he flies around. thumbsup
Posted By: ohio1974 Re: Browns pick Sione Takitaki 80th overall - 04/27/19 02:33 AM
Man that's one fast LB and boy can he tackle.
Originally Posted By: lampdogg
Did we just draft a STer at 80?


ST's was a weakness and didn't Freddie say ST's will get the same attention as the Offense and Defense??
WE need help at LB and this guy seems productive. I would trust John Dorsey. Another pick similar to G. Avery last year.
Posted By: Hammer Re: Browns pick Sione Takitaki 80th overall - 04/27/19 02:36 AM
Yeah - 4.63 speed. He's pretty fast to me. Looks it on tape, too. Looks long armed as many tackles he just dragged runners down with his arms.

Could be a hidden Gem.
Posted By: lampdogg Re: Browns pick Sione Takitaki 80th overall - 04/27/19 02:37 AM
Originally Posted By: PastorMarc
Originally Posted By: lampdogg
Did we just draft a STer at 80?


ST's was a weakness and didn't Freddie say ST's will get the same attention as the Offense and Defense??


At 80, though?
Browns asst. GM Eliot Wolf on Sione Takitaki having previous troubles: "He is a success story at BYU. You talk to anyone there, they didn't think he was going to make it his first year. He completely turned his life around."
Posted By: CalDawg Re: Browns pick Sione Takitaki 80th overall - 04/27/19 02:38 AM
He hasn't played a down yet and he's already an improvement over Collins. thumbsup
Wolf said he thinks Sione Takitaki projects into the LB rotation right away
Elliot Wolf said he was easily the highest rated player on their board. Wow
I know nothing about him, but I do know his last name will be fun to yell during games!
Originally Posted By: bringbackbernie
I know nothing about him, but I do know his last name will be fun to yell during games!


Hopefully for good reasons... lol.
Posted By: bonefish Re: Browns pick Sione Takitaki 80th overall - 04/27/19 02:44 AM

Unless you are a scout or GM nobody is going to know these picks.

Dorsey and his staff; they know.

I trust that he will contribute.
Posted By: Milk Man Re: Browns pick Sione Takitaki 80th overall - 04/27/19 02:46 AM
Nice to see we are at the point where we are not counting on immediate starters from 3rd round picks.

I know next to nothing about this guy. Likely ST guy.

Maybe a starter or depth long term.
Good thing about this is most had Avery as a ST guy and he turned out to contribute right away. So have to trust Dorsey
This dude finishes tackles!
Originally Posted By: Milk Man
Nice to see we are at the point where we are not counting on immediate starters from 3rd round picks.

I know next to nothing about this guy. Likely ST guy.

Maybe a starter or depth long term.


Yea, there would definitely be more harsh reactions if this weren't the case. And plus, most fans are still in the honeymoon stage with Dorsey. No matter what, he's getting love.
Hmm.. I see trouble on the horizon. Six pack, couple shots at the tailgate then going to the game and trying to yell Takitaki!!


I guess Dorsey wanted his own David Veikune too lol man I hope this guy isn't garbage like his grade suggests...I see nothing worthy of drafting him this high.
Originally Posted By: tru_dawgs
I guess Dorsey wanted his own David Veikune too lol man I hope this guy isn't garbage like his grade suggests...I see nothing worthy of drafting him this high.


my thoughts exactly.
I don't like this pick. Dude's been in a lot of trouble and has been wildly inconsistent. Seems like yet another head case.

Of course, I did not like last year's draft and it turned out to be outstanding. So, what do I know?
Posted By: lampdogg Re: Browns pick Sione Takitaki 80th overall - 04/27/19 03:00 AM
Might he be converted to safety, or some hydrid-type position?
Wolf said he thinks Sione Takitaki projects into the LB rotation right away
Posted By: cfrs15 Re: Browns pick Sione Takitaki 80th overall - 04/27/19 03:09 AM
I love the versatility. I know nothing about the player.
Posted By: Hammer Re: Browns pick Sione Takitaki 80th overall - 04/27/19 03:14 AM
When all is said and done, I think this guy will justify the pick. LB group needed some speed and this kid has it. Dorsey adding speed to all levels of the D and O.
I don't think he is a physical player. I think he struggles to get off blocks.
Posted By: lampdogg Re: Browns pick Sione Takitaki 80th overall - 04/27/19 03:18 AM
Dial it down, man.
deleted vid for language , sry
Posted By: lampdogg Re: Browns pick Sione Takitaki 80th overall - 04/27/19 03:20 AM
Originally Posted By: Versatile Dog
I don't think he is a physical player. I think he struggles to get off blocks.


Size isn't everything but he looks small. To me 6'1, 238 is not a big LB.
...Does this selection tie in to the Schobert trade rumors?
Posted By: lampdogg Re: Browns pick Sione Takitaki 80th overall - 04/27/19 03:21 AM
No. We're not trading Joe.
Originally Posted By: Versatile Dog
I don't think he is a physical player. I think he struggles to get off blocks.


I read a couple things that suggests he's good in coverage. I look at him as a third round flyer at LB and a ST demon.
I don't think his size is an issue. He may make some hits, but getting off blocks is important. He is poor in that area.

I do think this is evidence that Joe might be gone. This is the kind of stupid crap that happens w/coaching changes.

I actually think we have digressed during this draft.
Posted By: lampdogg Re: Browns pick Sione Takitaki 80th overall - 04/27/19 03:26 AM
One reason to be poor at shedding blocks: the guy blocking has a hundred pounds on you. Am I making too much of his size? Especially his weight?
I certainly hope we keep Schobert. I think he's a talented, and smart, player.
It's important, lamp. However, there is way more to it.

Playing w/leverage. Lower body strength. Hand technique. Lateral movement. It's not even close to being about size.

I ran over 250 lb dudes at 185-190 lbs all the time. I laid out huge offensive linemen when I played Monster back. Leverage, velocity, technique, want-to, lack of fear, and having no problem w/lighting your ass up are huge factors. It isn't all about size when it comes to tackling or running the rock.


The players were slightly smaller in those days, still, Mike Singletary was ferocious at 230#. Ray Lewis went about 240#.

As you said, desire and mindset are so important when you need to impose your will on another player.
j/c:

Wondering why we did not take Lane w/this pick?
Sacks and tackles. Just my guess but I think this is what we brought him here to do.
Originally Posted By: Versatile Dog
j/c:

Wondering why we did not take Lane w/this pick?


They probably saw something in his transition to LB last year that went under the radar. Only thing I can figure.
I will say his intensity and playing speed look really good...He gets washed out rather easy, and his tackling form will need improvements if hes attempting to take down an NFL back...

Its hard to get a true sense in a highlight flick...but I was listening to an interview and I guess Fred Warner made the transition to ILB, and seems like that could be this guys calling as well...But like someone else stated alot of his plays came at edge...so I guess we shall see.
Originally Posted By: OldColdDawg
Originally Posted By: Versatile Dog
j/c:

Wondering why we did not take Lane w/this pick?


They probably saw something in his transition to LB last year that went under the radar. Only thing I can figure.


I'm not mad or anything and Dorsey knows way more about football than I do. Just conversing.
Originally Posted By: lampdogg
Might he be converted to safety, or some hydrid-type position?

Good call.
Originally Posted By: Versatile Dog
I don't think he is a physical player. I think he struggles to get off blocks.


I don't think so.
Originally Posted By: YTownBrownsFan
I certainly hope we keep Schobert. I think he's a talented, and smart, player.


I like Joe the person and agree he is smart. But, when I heard we might trade him, I went to watch some games while focusing on him.

I came out lower on him than I went in. I think in some ways he might be more a good "analytics" LB than a good "on film" LB.

Yes, he did well in coverage. However, he was covering guys like "end of the line" Antonio Gates and undrafted, 4.98 40 Eric Tomlinson. His one pick was a gift from Sam Darnold who got pressured and hit a standing still Schobert in the chest.

Against athletic TEs, Avery was the LB we seemed to match up more often.

Schobert does move well in space, but I don't know that he can handle better athletes there.

Some of it may have been scheme as at times it looked like Williams had him sprinting back to Peppers' "Angel" role.

Still, a LB spending ~90% of his time running away from the line of scrimmage is a little off to me.

His knowledge of Williams' D was a plus, but its probably more valuable in Williams' D than here in Wilks'.

He doesn't handle contact all that well. He'd probably benefit from more of a wall type set of DTs to keep him clean. Last year, TEs, RBs, and pulling Guards put him in the dirt a decent bit.

Occasionally he'll knife into the backfield unblocked but more often he's stoned cold if they get a single hand on him.

Can someone else watch the Jets game (it was recommended to me as one of his "good" games) and tell me if I'm crazy? I had thought he was good.
Posted By: myka Re: Browns pick Sione Takitaki 80th overall - 04/27/19 04:01 AM
Originally Posted By: bringbackbernie
I know nothing about him, but I do know his last name will be fun to yell during games!


Yah for sure.

My fav players are always LB/TE. We haven't really had an LB I felt safe buying a jersey of yet, so I have a Njoku right now, but if this guy is good I'm gonna get one for sure, his name is just too good. I've been saying it all night already haha
Originally Posted By: lampdogg
One reason to be poor at shedding blocks: the guy blocking has a hundred pounds on you. Am I making too much of his size? Especially his weight?


Kaluka Maiavia, remember him, was in the 230's I believe.


somebodys got some explaining.


A tuff pill to swallow, A tuff pill to swallow at #80 overall.

trying to hold my tongue.


tuff pill to swallow.
We need LBs that can ‘run with’ Lamar. We just got one. I could see us using a multi (5) linebacker/hybrid safety set against Baltimore. A guy like Takitaki can fill that squad out.
I'm disappointed because I hoped that we would add a rotational DT at that draft slot. I honestly don't believe I know enough about Willis' defense. I read a few articles, and a lot of internet chatter but honestly I don't know enough about Willis' defense to evaluate the role Takitaki is projected to fill. He seems to be a productive blitzing LB. He seems to have skills to pursue plays from the backside with noticeable success. When he can square up on a ball carrier he delivers some physical hits.

I haven't seen evidence that he makes consistent and routine run fits. There isn't much film showing him in coverage. So these are questions I have about him.
Posted By: lampdogg Re: Browns pick Sione Takitaki 80th overall - 04/27/19 04:27 AM
Originally Posted By: THROW LONG
Originally Posted By: lampdogg
One reason to be poor at shedding blocks: the guy blocking has a hundred pounds on you. Am I making too much of his size? Especially his weight?


Kaluka Maiavia, remember him, was in the 230's I believe.


somebodys got some explaining.


A tuff pill to swallow, A tuff pill to swallow at #80 overall.

trying to hold my tongue.


tuff pill to swallow.




Brown acid?
Posted By: eotab Re: Browns pick Sione Takitaki 80th overall - 04/27/19 04:33 AM
Ignorance is bliss...lol - ME TOO as I don't have a clue on this guy but our guys watched hours upon hours of film on this guy.

You know what I see? Not this SAM LB that this self acclaimed expert states.

I see a possible SS. btw Lamp...how many 3rd round picks do you know of from the Browns that are starters year one?

Larry was an exceptional pick that turned out good. Who did we take last year.

I could be wrong but Kirksey didn't start his rookie year did HE???

last year we took Thomas...well injured but obviously he didn't even play.

Impact players are first two rounds. 3rd round is hopefully a player round.

Last year #33 the first pick in the 2nd round didn't play. So lets not get all ready to put down Dorsey on a 3rd round pick...actually I hope he studs out on ST. Its a great place for a LB to start to stud out.

Kid hits hard and it would not surprise me at all to see him start taking reps at SS.

I say that cause he looked ok in coverage and he did a lot of tackling from the area that a SS would be in.

So who knows 2019 will not see him start unless we have injuries but hopefully our coaches can coach the kid up. He looked pretty decent on know its hard to tell via highlights I didn't see game film on him...but I know our Scouts and Dorsey did.

lets see him develop and Progress then make some assumptions.

I don't want us to get cocky as fans not every pick will be a Pro Bowler and this aint pointing fingers on you...immediately 5,6 tweets posts were negative mostly because of the lack of familiarity.

As I said this kid could be a SS or a possible Will LB.

jmho

ps...don't get mad at me. Not dissing you.
He's a good player, great run defender. Not much of a coverage guy, but he's pretty good at exploiting an offensive line on the pass rush.

Reminds me of Kendricks. I don't think he'll ever be a full time player, but as a specialist, role player, I can definitely see it. I think it's great for when we play the Ravens two times a year and they run that high school offense.

But, I felt there were better options at this pick. Oh well, I don't think he's flat out bad like Chad Thomas.

As to his prior problems off the field, he fought back from them, got married, matured, and became a team captain this year. I don't think that's a worry at all.
Posted By: eotab Re: Browns pick Sione Takitaki 80th overall - 04/27/19 04:55 AM
Definitely ranked lower than this slot but how much is that from his history and as stated by bigbaddawg he seems to have made a complete turn around from that. Marriage does that without a doubt.

I'm sure we all could come of with 10 players that we would rather have...lol laugh

But who here watched hours of game film on him...raise your hands. Not me.

So am I worried. Heck no I really don't come into a draft expecting much from my 3rd rounder or later picks.

As long as we get the first two round right...we are winners the rest are all Bonus picks.

This was not a strong draft class.

picking 49 and 80 I was not looking for much. If you all think that Dorsey is going to pick instant starters out of his butt every time...lol laugh

come on guys this aint your 1999-2017 Browns teams.

We actually have a pretty good roster as it is.
I really don't know much of anything about this kid, but I am going to trust Dorsey and Co. They seem absolutely certain, and Wolf seems to absolutely love the kid.
I welcome any player who tackles well. We gotta play this guy. Can he rush the passer well?
Arms should be a plus there.
We need a bagful of hammers on defense and this is one. The kid hits. The larger half of tackling is wanting to. He seems to want to get after it. I don't remember seeing him play.

raises the bar for intensity; plus motor?
Posted By: Ballpeen Re: Browns pick Sione Takitaki 80th overall - 04/27/19 10:33 AM
What is that?
Posted By: Ballpeen Re: Browns pick Sione Takitaki 80th overall - 04/27/19 10:55 AM
Originally Posted By: GratefulDawg




A guy that Depo and staff would like. A case of the metrics and tape matching?

It looks like we drafted him early, but Wolfe said he was the highest rated player on our board. Something had to put him so high on our board. Who knows, maybe we drafted him a pick or two ahead of some other team who had him that high.
I watched the presser where Wolf talked about Takitaki, and he specifically mentioned being wowed by his game against Wisconsin. Here's a cutup of that game.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1xT3Acc3E_k
I remember watching the Wisconsin game...Takitaki and the big DE for BYU dismantled the Wisconsin offense.

Only time I've seen him play, but I do remember him.
Posted By: Ballpeen Re: Browns pick Sione Takitaki 80th overall - 04/27/19 11:17 AM
I am getting ready to go for my 6 mile Saturday walk, so I can't watch any of the tape, but your personal testimonials are encouraging.

I fell asleep before the 3rd round pick and woke up around 2:30. Checked my phone and saw we drafted the kid. My thought was What is that? LOL. Now reading about him I am encouraged as the scouting on him seems solid and the metrics are solid.

I will trust our scouting and metrics guys and hope the guy becomes a stud.
Oh, after re-watching the tape, he wasn't too great that game...he did have some splash plays.

That #90 DE for BYU was dominant though; I remember that.
Posted By: mac Re: Browns pick Sione Takitaki 80th overall - 04/27/19 12:30 PM
Eliot Wolf...speaking of S.Tak..."he plays with violence"...

I like that...
Posted By: cle23 Re: Browns pick Sione Takitaki 80th overall - 04/27/19 12:33 PM
Originally Posted By: THROW LONG
Originally Posted By: lampdogg
One reason to be poor at shedding blocks: the guy blocking has a hundred pounds on you. Am I making too much of his size? Especially his weight?


Kaluka Maiavia, remember him, was in the 230's I believe.


somebodys got some explaining.


A tuff pill to swallow, A tuff pill to swallow at #80 overall.

trying to hold my tongue.


tuff pill to swallow.



Devin white, the #5 pick, us the same size. Not comparing their play, but his size is fine.
Posted By: eotab Re: Browns pick Sione Takitaki 80th overall - 04/27/19 12:37 PM
Does that 6 mile walk involve a little white ball?


With the 80th overall selection in the 2019 NFL Draft, the Cleveland Browns selected linebacker, Sione Takitaki. Sione addressed the media immediately following his selection.
Didn't EO mention that he might be a SS candidate? That got me to thinking, doesn't Wilks use a hybrid SS/LB position? The position that Burnett didn't want to play in Pittspuke.

Could this be the player the team has identified to fill that role?
He actually kind of reminds me of Avery. Can do a little bit of everything.

He was an undersized DE until this season, so he should only get better at LB. He seems to have progressed over the season and capped it off with 19 tackles in his bowl game.

Takitaki also played some fullback at BYU.
Gives a good interview. Hard to judge sincerity in text, though.

draftwire: prospect interview Sione Takitaki, BYU

Quote:
If your favorite team is looking for a steal of a linebacker in the 2019 NFL draft, BYU’s Sione Takitaki might just be your man.

A versatile prospect with a well-rounded skill set, Takitaki recently spoke exclusively with Draft Wire about his unique journey at BYU, why his passion for the game and help from his wife helped keep him on the path to success, and what kind of skill set he brings to the next level.

ZH: I read that you were recruited by a ton of schools that included Wisconsin, Washington State, and Utah. Why did you end up choosing BYU?

ST: I grew up LDS, I grew up a Mormon kid, so BYU was always one of the schools that I was always looking at, because my mom and my family wanted me to go there. So that was the main reason why I decided to attend BYU.

ZH: You struggled a bit early in your career with some off-field issues, but really turned that around the last two seasons. What was the key to really turning your life around?

ST: I just really loved the game. I really loved football, I met my wife on that journey, and you know from a maturity standpoint, I got my head on right and like I said, I want to be a football player. I know I have a big opportunity and it was all in my hands, so I finally just screwed my head on right and attacked it.

ZH: How difficult was it to manage your time between your marriage, schoolwork, and football those last few years at BYU?

ST: It was difficult. BYU is a great university and you really have to prepare for the schoolwork and all that stuff. It’s all about priorities you know and managing your time. Once I leave the facility, I can leave football there, and like I said, it’s all about time management.


ZH: That turnaround was evident when you were named team captain in 2018. What did it mean to you to receive that honor after all you’ve been through?

ST: It meant a lot just because I stuck it out with them at BYU. I had a lot of friends and coaches that have helped me, so when I got that team captain, it kind of felt good because I was close with my teammates in the locker room. I felt like it was just a big step for my final year, and I thank God for all of that.

ZH: On the field, you made the transition from defensive end to linebacker this past year. Was that position change difficult for you?

ST: Prior to 2017, I played 3-4 outside linebacker, so that’s where coaches got to putting me at DE because I was rushing quite a bit, so I made the switch. And then in 2018, I went back to stack linebacker, middle linebacker/outside backer. To answer your question, though, it wasn’t too difficult at all. I’ve always rushed and known how to play physical, so I learned a lot from both positions, and I’m happy that I played DE and linebacker.

ZH: After that great senior season, you were invited to the East-West Shrine Game. How was that experience for you?
ST: It was awesome, man. I met a lot of good athletes there. I was able to meet a lot of scouts and do a lot of testing that the NFL wants, and I just feel like it was a great learning week. Learning a new scheme and things like that, but I had a great time down there. I went there and put my best foot forward and dominated a lot of the drills and practices.



ZH: Following the Shrine Game, you were also a late add to the Senior Bowl roster. How were those two events different for you?

ST: It was just different because I really did a lot of the testing and met a lot of the scouts at the East-West game the week before. I thought it was a good thing though. It was kind of tiring, doing the back-to-back where you stay up late nights, where you get minimum sleep, and they ask you to perform at a high level in practice. I flew back to California from Florida and then I got the call, so I think that was the most difficult thing, having to fly from the East coast to the West coast then back to the East coast in that little time in three days.

ZH: Who in the NFL do you compare your game to most/ model your game after?

ST: I don’t really have anyone to compare myself to, but I do watch a lot of film on guys in the NFL right now. Guys like Bobby Wagner, Luke Kuechly, Von Miller. All of the greats, I definitely watch all kinds of film on them.

ZH: What is my team getting if I spend a draft pick on Sione Takitaki?

ST: First and foremost, you are going to get a guy who loves football. I’m doing this because I love this game. You are going to get a hard worker and also a guy who has never been hurt. There are a lot of players who are good but they have had like 5 surgeries. I haven’t had one surgery, I’m healthy as an ox, and I’m ready to play special teams or defense or wherever you need me. I’m ready to go.

You are also getting a locker room guy. I’m cool with all walks of life and backgrounds. I’m comfortable with everyone and I let the coaches coach. I think those key things are really important for me and what you’d be getting with me.
Posted By: Ballpeen Re: Browns pick Sione Takitaki 80th overall - 04/27/19 01:30 PM
Originally Posted By: eotab
Does that 6 mile walk involve a little white ball?


No. Just my morning walk. I usually start around 5:30 to beat the heat...not that it is that hot now...been hitting upper 70's low 80's for a few weeks now. Another 3-4 weeks and it is 90's through mid Sept. I wake early and just got in the habit of walking early. Got a little later start this morning because I had to read up a little longer on the draft news. To be honest, I wanted to read a bit more before I head head to an event that starts at 11, so I cut the walk this morning to 4 miles. I walk at the club some. We have a full caddy program. You have to walk a minimum number of times a year using a caddy.
Posted By: mgh888 Re: Browns pick Sione Takitaki 80th overall - 04/27/19 03:11 PM
Looking at the various highlight films / game tape - you can see some good things but not very consistently. I think this has to be a 'watch this space' sort of pick. I do like the way he picks a path through the line on blitzes, he seems to have a knack for flowing to the ball with a little patience. Also seemed pretty disciplined. One of the ings I like best is that he turned his life/attitude around and went from troubled individual to a Captain on D. I think that's great.

Dorsey has to miss on some picks ... no idea if this is it or not, but bottom line is I am not going to second guess the man.
The Browns have a bad history, shortterm history with players selected in this range. 2nd or 3rd round picks that are real headscratchers.
seems like a tough kid and quick/fast
Originally Posted By: THROW LONG
The Browns have a bad history, shortterm history with players selected in this range. 2nd or 3rd round picks that are real headscratchers.


Agree, we have a tendency to get too cute and outsmart ourselves...praying to god it works this time, because I'm skeptical as well.
Posted By: mgh888 Re: Browns pick Sione Takitaki 80th overall - 04/27/19 06:27 PM
Originally Posted By: THROW LONG
The Browns have a bad history, shortterm history with players selected in this range. 2nd or 3rd round picks that are real headscratchers.


Well good job that it was Dorsey's pick and he has a somewhat stellar track record. Seriously - whatever happened under previous regimes has zero to do with Dorsey and his picks.... and while I am not giving the keys of the city to Dorsey on a lifetime basis - he's certainly earned a lot of latitude and slack on any pick he wants to make. Let's wait and see.
Originally Posted By: mgh888
Originally Posted By: THROW LONG
The Browns have a bad history, shortterm history with players selected in this range. 2nd or 3rd round picks that are real headscratchers.


Well good job that it was Dorsey's pick and he has a somewhat stellar track record. Seriously - whatever happened under previous regimes has zero to do with Dorsey and his picks.... and while I am not giving the keys of the city to Dorsey on a lifetime basis - he's certainly earned a lot of latitude and slack on any pick he wants to make. Let's wait and see.


Absolutely.

His 1st draft was special. Let's see how his 2nd one turns out before we bury him.
Gotta love new players,

Nothing against the player, the team (probably) is in love with his explosiveness,

I'tll be up to new DC Wilkes to show how this player's use helps the team this year.

Even if we've all seen a laundry list of players who fit this mold and have come in and, and and, and if we want a longterm upside player at #80 overall,
We need to give this player a chance, and see what kind of plans the team has for them,

It may have been a questionable use of the slotted pick but the player deserves a chance to show what he's got.

Maybe he's a special teams ace, and a, situational pass rushing GEM, and fits other schemes in other situations,

May end up being a really good player.
Posted By: BADdog Re: Browns pick Sione Takitaki 80th overall - 04/28/19 07:51 PM
Other than D line this is the type of player I thought we would draft with our second round pick. Someone who I think can be extremely effective freelancing a bit and be real good when plays break down or dont go as planned. He has speed and like to hit.
If I"m reading these two charts correctly, Wilson is stronger in pass rush, Takitaki is stronger as a run stopper. Their coverage abilities are in the same neighborhood. Takitaki's rate of production is higher. Right?
Posted By: BADdog Re: Browns pick Sione Takitaki 80th overall - 04/29/19 12:28 AM
NFL.COM

Strengths
Matured from self-described "knucklehead" to team captain
Averaged almost 100 tackles, four sacks and 11.5 TFLs since 2017

Plays every play like it could be his last
Pursuit bursts with energy
Usually plays with a proactive demeanor vs run
Leveled up as block-slipper this season
Once he hits the gas, he's all in
Plays faster than timed speed
Short-area burst rushes him into place
Good reaction quickness to tackle from zone
Ready-made demeanor for special teams

Just what we needed a bit of a wild man on the field.
I watched one of his games today (Umass)....he looked good-very good at times, however very suspect at times too. I can see where he tends to be in on a lot of the tackles...He however has a lot of issues too...Gap control, a lot of false steps, pursuit angles, gets washed away really easy...Made a nice play right at the 2 minute warning in the first half...Made another good play in the second half, and looked pretty good in pass coverage...Him and Mack Wilson definitely to work on tackling, gap integrity, and pursuit angles/steps....Both tackle rather high and try to whip you down, that's a lot more of a risky tackle in the NFL.

Perhaps it was just an off day, which just happens...He also looks smaller than his weigh/size listed. I think he will be a great addition on special teams and sub pacakges, until he learns the game.
Thanks for the honest analysis, tru. I can always count on you for fair takes.

Sounds like he should be very valuable on our special team's units. I think both Dorsey and Freddie are placing more importance on those units than Sashi and Hue did.
Originally Posted By: Versatile Dog
Thanks for the honest analysis, tru. I can always count on you for fair takes.

Sounds like he should be very valuable on our special team's units. I think both Dorsey and Freddie are placing more importance on those units than Sashi and Hue did.


Always welcome my friend, and I agree all the way. Seems the past couple years we weren't constructing those special teams correctly. And point to notice, we got some young guys to plug in there along with Adarius Taylor to help on those coverage units...I still wonder who our returner will be? But I really like the focus and emphasis of placing a high effort to rebuild that unit. Seems like constantly opposing teams had nice field placement after we allowed them to wiggle downfield on returns.

Not going to lie, I was disappointed with the selection of Takitaki...But I would be lying if I said he didn't have a place on this team...Both him and Wilson look like special team studs, which fresh hungry blood is needed...I don't think Dorsey is going to let another Richardo Louis trot out there to perform a half arse tackle lol He went out and got some high octane guys whom love to mix it up.
Tru, you have no idea how irate I used to get at Ricardo Louis. Dude would be in perfect position and whiff on a tackle. I come on here and folks are saying our ST's coach sucked. Unreal!

Do you think Callaway could be our returner. He seems like he has the requisite skills, but I'm not sure we trusted him last year.

I think he could be dynamic as a returner, but I'm not sure if he will be reliable. What are your thoughts?
Callaway did a nice job as the returner in the final game of the season against the Ravens.
Posted By: lampdogg Re: Browns pick Sione Takitaki 80th overall - 04/29/19 01:57 AM
Originally Posted By: guard dawg
If I"m reading these two charts correctly, Wilson is stronger in pass rush, Takitaki is stronger as a run stopper. Their coverage abilities are in the same neighborhood. Takitaki's rate of production is higher. Right?


Am I the only poster who likes saying Takitaki?
On April 5, the Browns signed Damon Sheehy-Guiseppi. I don't see why they would sign a relatively unknown junior college WR except that he was a kick returning demon. Obviously, he has a lot to prove before he makes the 53-man, but I gotta believe he was signed on the off chance he can bring do what he did in JC to the NFL.

https://www.dawgsbynature.com/2019/4/5/18297159/cleveland-browns-sign-damon-sheehy-guiseppi
Posted By: lampdogg Re: Browns pick Sione Takitaki 80th overall - 04/29/19 01:58 AM
It's fun!

Plus, we drafted Redwine
Originally Posted By: W84NxtYrAgain
On April 5, the Browns signed Damon Sheehy-Guiseppi. I don't see why they would sign a relatively unknown junior college WR except that he was a kick returning demon. Obviously, he has a lot to prove before he makes the 53-man, but I gotta believe he was signed on the off chance he can bring do what he did in JC to the NFL.

https://www.dawgsbynature.com/2019/4/5/18297159/cleveland-browns-sign-damon-sheehy-guiseppi


Good point.
Originally Posted By: lampdogg
Originally Posted By: guard dawg
If I"m reading these two charts correctly, Wilson is stronger in pass rush, Takitaki is stronger as a run stopper. Their coverage abilities are in the same neighborhood. Takitaki's rate of production is higher. Right?


Am I the only poster who likes saying Takitaki?


LOL I must have said it about a million times.
Originally Posted By: Versatile Dog
Tru, you have no idea how irate I used to get at Ricardo Louis. Dude would be in perfect position and whiff on a tackle. I come on here and folks are saying our ST's coach sucked. Unreal!

Do you think Callaway could be our returner. He seems like he has the requisite skills, but I'm not sure we trusted him last year.

I think he could be dynamic as a returner, but I'm not sure if he will be reliable. What are your thoughts?


I remember Louis blocking on a punt return while engaging with a blocker, Louis turned around to see where our returner was...gave up on the play, and his man came in a swooped our returner for an easy tackle...I remember him giving up way too early often, and Im so glad he is gone...He did the same thing on a long Crowell run, and gave up...allowing his man to come up and get Crowell before the endzone....Just laziness, which kills me man.

Yeah Calloway is probably our purest candidate for returner...He doesn't have a lot of wiggle, but more wiggle than our other options...Has the speed for sure...I can't think of anyone but him...I dont think Jaelen Strong has ever been part of a return game, so yeah Calloway and maybe Ratley with his straight line speed.
Posted By: Jester Re: Browns pick Sione Takitaki 80th overall - 04/29/19 03:02 AM
Originally Posted By: tru_dawgs
I watched one of his games today (Umass)....he looked good-very good at times, however very suspect at times too. I can see where he tends to be in on a lot of the tackles...He however has a lot of issues too...Gap control, a lot of false steps, pursuit angles, gets washed away really easy...Made a nice play right at the 2 minute warning in the first half...Made another good play in the second half, and looked pretty good in pass coverage...Him and Mack Wilson definitely to work on tackling, gap integrity, and pursuit angles/steps....Both tackle rather high and try to whip you down, that's a lot more of a risky tackle in the NFL.

Perhaps it was just an off day, which just happens...He also looks smaller than his weigh/size listed. I think he will be a great addition on special teams and sub pacakges, until he learns the game.


What part of the season was that game?

I saw the Eliot Wolf interview on the pick. He was talking about how Takitaki was a DE last season and only transitioned to Lb this past season. And that he got a lot better as the season went on. If the game you watched was early in the year I would suggest that you watch a later one. If it was later in the season then it tells me that he still has a long ways to go.
Posted By: Clemdawg Re: Browns pick Sione Takitaki 80th overall - 04/29/19 04:32 AM
Quote:
Am I the only poster who likes saying Takitaki?


No. You have company.
I also like my new nickname for him:

Taki²
Posted By: Clemdawg Re: Browns pick Sione Takitaki 80th overall - 04/29/19 04:34 AM
Originally Posted By: lampdogg
It's fun!

Plus, we drafted Redwine



On my buddy's fb, he read a meme that Browns fans are getting Greedy for some shiTakitaki 'shrooms in a nice Redwine sauce....


thumbsup
Originally Posted By: Clemdawg
Quote:
Am I the only poster who likes saying Takitaki?


No. You have company.
I also like my new nickname for him:

Taki²


How are you saying that Taki squared? Or is it just short-hand way of writing his name. Maybe I'm putting too much thought into it.

It's a clever nickname, though.
Well,mayhap Dorsey builds a better board. Surprising to hear he was tops. Love to know what bumped him up for us, or maybe backed some other folks off.

Welcome aboard; win us some games! brownie
Originally Posted By: Clemdawg
Quote:
Am I the only poster who likes saying Takitaki?


No. You have company.
I also like my new nickname for him:

Taki²


As someone who deals with mathematicians, that should be (Taki)². The whole Taki is squared, not just the i. laugh

Nice!


It's not only fun to say, it's also fun to hear Freddie say it in stride and not even crack a smile that he said it.
I think I already heard Freddie shorten it to Taki. I like Taki².

(For those looking on their keyboards for the ² key, hold down your ALT key and type 0178 then release the ALT key)
My first thought was "who"?
Posted By: BpG Re: Browns pick Sione Takitaki 80th overall - 04/29/19 01:27 PM
Definitely a bit of a head scratcher here.
Hopefully, he doesn't start getting flagged a lot and we start calling him ticky taki.
Posted By: FATE Re: Browns pick Sione Takitaki 80th overall - 04/29/19 03:22 PM
Originally Posted By: Bull_Dawg
Hopefully, he doesn't start getting flagged a lot and we start calling him ticky taki.

...or hanging out with Josh Gordon and we call him toki-toki
And now I've randomly got this stuck in my head:

Posted By: ExclDawg Re: Browns pick Sione Takitaki 80th overall - 04/29/19 03:35 PM
Originally Posted By: CapCity Dawg
Originally Posted By: Clemdawg
Quote:
Am I the only poster who likes saying Takitaki?


No. You have company.
I also like my new nickname for him:

Taki²


As someone who deals with mathematicians, that should be (Taki)². The whole Taki is squared, not just the i. laugh


Shouldn't it technically be 2 * (Taki)? poke
Posted By: FATE Re: Browns pick Sione Takitaki 80th overall - 04/29/19 03:39 PM
Nice way to tie it all together lol.
Groannn....
Originally Posted By: FATE
Originally Posted By: Bull_Dawg
Hopefully, he doesn't start getting flagged a lot and we start calling him ticky taki.

...or hanging out with Josh Gordon and we call him toki-toki


or making jokes like this we can call him tacky-taki
Originally Posted By: ExclDawg
Originally Posted By: CapCity Dawg
Originally Posted By: Clemdawg
Quote:
Am I the only poster who likes saying Takitaki?


No. You have company.
I also like my new nickname for him:

Taki²


As someone who deals with mathematicians, that should be (Taki)². The whole Taki is squared, not just the i. laugh


Shouldn't it technically be 2 * (Taki)? poke


No. TakiTaki is (Taki)². Taki + Taki would be 2 * (Taki)
Originally Posted By: CapCity Dawg
Originally Posted By: ExclDawg
Originally Posted By: CapCity Dawg
Originally Posted By: Clemdawg
Quote:
Am I the only poster who likes saying Takitaki?


No. You have company.
I also like my new nickname for him:

Taki²


As someone who deals with mathematicians, that should be (Taki)². The whole Taki is squared, not just the i. laugh


Shouldn't it technically be 2 * (Taki)? poke


No. TakiTaki is (Taki)². Taki + Taki would be 2 * (Taki)



A reminder of why I did poorly in algebra... I loved geometry but man I was bad at the rest of advanced math. Too many rules. In my mind it’s too many letters and not enough numbers to be math. It was my only GPA killer.
Posted By: PitDAWG Re: Browns pick Sione Takitaki 80th overall - 04/29/19 05:29 PM
Originally Posted By: lampdogg
It's fun!

Plus, we drafted Redwine


I hear a rumor that Whitewine was offended.
Originally Posted By: PitDAWG
Originally Posted By: lampdogg
It's fun!

Plus, we drafted Redwine


I hear a rumor that Whitewine was offended.



rofl


What about his girlfriend, Chardonnay? cool
pray hes not another David Veikune.
darn Mangini was totally clueless when it came to drafting
Originally Posted By: Iluvmyxstripper
pray hes not another David Veikune.
darn Mangini was totally clueless when it came to drafting


Well we did have one GM try to claim Kaluka Maiava was the best LB on the USC roster in 2005... Mathews, Cushing, Maualuga...
Man we’ve had some awful front office.
Posted By: Pdawg Re: Browns pick Sione Takitaki 80th overall - 04/29/19 07:00 PM
I wish I knew more about this kid. CleveSteve would have known all about him.
Posted By: BpG Re: Browns pick Sione Takitaki 80th overall - 04/29/19 07:39 PM
I saw that Elliot Wolfe said that we "need to go watch the Wisconsin game"

and guys, I don't see it.

Posted By: Pdawg Re: Browns pick Sione Takitaki 80th overall - 04/29/19 07:58 PM
Doesn’t get off blocks very well imo. Tight ends were able to block him. He did make a few splash plays but overall he was just a guy.
Posted By: BpG Re: Browns pick Sione Takitaki 80th overall - 04/29/19 08:03 PM
Yep, the way wolfe was talking I was expecting to see a wrecking ball. He missed a tackle on Alex freaking Hornibrooke.
Posted By: BpG Re: Browns pick Sione Takitaki 80th overall - 04/29/19 08:34 PM
He's not really a great athlete either, he's decent but Winnovich taken 3 picks ahead of him is a way better athlete.
I am much happier with Takitaki than Winnovich, IMO he is a much better on the field "Football Player" ...
Good link Grateful. I like Jake Burns breakdowns.
Posted By: mac Re: Browns pick Sione Takitaki 80th overall - 04/29/19 09:15 PM
Taki reminds me of Joe Schobert...quick to the general area on runs inside the tackles but gets lost in the mix...not a good run stopper at this point (as a rookie)...but
does get in on some tackles...not dominate (yet).

Needs size, strength and experience...imo.
Originally Posted By: mac
Taki reminds me of Joe Schobert...quick to the general area on runs inside the tackles but gets lost in the mix...not a good run stopper at this point (as a rookie)...but
does get in on some tackles...not dominate (yet).

Needs size, strength and experience...imo.


Not at all (very little at least to me) . I've been watching a lot of Schobert after hearing the trade rumors. I'm tempted to call him Joe "Charmin" Schobert at times, he plays so soft. A bit of an exaggeration, but physicality is definitely an area Joe could improve.

Takitaki isn't as fluid in coverage, but he's way better (more physical might be a better way to put it) in the running game imho.

Responding to others more generally,

There's not a whole lot a LB can do when the DTs in front of him are getting blown 5 yards off the ball and into his lap. So it's hard to get a good read on him on dive plays. As far as plays to the outside and with pulling guards, he was blowing up the blocking schemes.

Someone mentioned he wasn't good at shedding blocks. I'm not sure this is entirely accurate. Sometimes you don't want to shed a blocker. Often it is more effective to compress the hole and/or occupy multiple blockers. Re-watch the Wisky game and notice how often he just walks his man back into a pulling lineman and makes a mess of where the play was supposed to go. He might not make the tackle, but there were multiple times he "made the play."

He did miss some tackles, but when you're flying around full speed it's bound to happen more often than if you don't hustle to get there in the first place.

After watching other LBs in this class, I can see how he looked like a wrecking ball. He's not always making the splash play himself, but he sure can make a mess for the RB.
Posted By: Jester Re: Browns pick Sione Takitaki 80th overall - 04/29/19 10:29 PM
Watched the video.

He is relentless and aggressive in his pursuit of the ball. At times overly aggressive. He is chasing down the ball carrier and his weight gets forward causing him to get juked and miss some tackles.

When the bid Wisconsin linemen get to him he had a hard time shaking them.

I only saw 2 plays where the TE was able to take him out of the play. Once the TE controlled him the other time the TE took advantage of that over aggressiveness and just pushed him into his momentum to take him out of position.

Didn't get a great feel for him in the passing game. Seems like BYU played a lot of zone coverage. Most of the passing plays seemed to go to the opposite side of the field. Likely coincidence. On the ones to his side I saw nothing great but nothing eggregious either.
Posted By: cfrs15 Re: Browns pick Sione Takitaki 80th overall - 04/29/19 10:32 PM
If this guy develops over the next year he is taking Kirksey or Schobert's spot:

https://expo.cleveland.com/sports/g66l-2...-film-room.html

We can't afford to pay both of them.

What a world we live in where a player like Takitaki can play sparingly in his rookie year because we have legit starters in front of him. In 2016 we were starting guys like him.
We can get out of Kirksey's deal next season with a cap savings.
Posted By: cfrs15 Re: Browns pick Sione Takitaki 80th overall - 04/29/19 10:36 PM
Originally Posted By: YTownBrownsFan
We can get out of Kirksey's deal next season with a cap savings.


Right. If it were up to me that money would go straight to Schobert. My point is that we can't keep Kirksey and Schobert going into the 2020 season.
I agree. However, it's likely that Dorsey is hoping that he can go into 2020 with Avery, Wilson, and Takitaki as his LB corps.
Posted By: cfrs15 Re: Browns pick Sione Takitaki 80th overall - 04/29/19 10:44 PM
Originally Posted By: YTownBrownsFan
I agree. However, it's likely that Dorsey is hoping that he can go into 2020 with Avery, Wilson, and Takitaki as his LB corps.


I'd be shocked if that was the plan. Wilson was a fifth round pick. Not many guys go from fifth round pick to starter on a contender in one year.

I don't see Avery as a linebacker. My bet is that he ends up as an edge rusher more often than not in 2019.
Posted By: Tulsa Re: Browns pick Sione Takitaki 80th overall - 04/29/19 10:45 PM
Originally Posted By: CapCity Dawg
Originally Posted By: ExclDawg
Originally Posted By: CapCity Dawg
Originally Posted By: Clemdawg
Quote:
Am I the only poster who likes saying Takitaki?


No. You have company.
I also like my new nickname for him:

Taki²


As someone who deals with mathematicians, that should be (Taki)². The whole Taki is squared, not just the i. laugh


Shouldn't it technically be 2 * (Taki)? poke


No. TakiTaki is (Taki)². Taki + Taki would be 2 * (Taki)


As long as it adds up to Takitaki going all tiki torchi on pittsburgh.
Posted By: kwhip Re: Browns pick Sione Takitaki 80th overall - 04/29/19 11:29 PM
Originally Posted By: cfrs15
Originally Posted By: YTownBrownsFan
We can get out of Kirksey's deal next season with a cap savings.


Right. If it were up to me that money would go straight to Schobert. My point is that we can't keep Kirksey and Schobert going into the 2020 season.


Nope. Ain't gonna happen. You should know why.

Imho. This is the last year of both.

Keep drafting Dorsey. Cause NO WAY is Schoebert worth 10+ a year.
Originally Posted By: YTownBrownsFan
We can get out of Kirksey's deal next season with a cap savings.
When they announced that Kirksey was going to announce the 3rd round pick, I speculated that he could be announcing his replacement. Seriously Kirko, I was joking.
GC. or rather, (taki) squared, is taki times taki.

Schobert is in my opinion, the most all around Lb they have, and should be held closely to the vest, as accoding to rotoworld, a couple days ago, I think he's vastly a bargain contract if around circa 750K per year.

I hope they continue to add players with all around game at LB, because it's such a crucial area.

How long can they keep this roster together?.

The Browns roster, (getting better), is reaching a point where one player with all the attributes, is becoming of more value than 3 players which are really good but have a weakness.

It wasn't always this way.
Posted By: bonefish Re: Browns pick Sione Takitaki 80th overall - 04/30/19 02:42 AM

In that tape for the most part I saw a guy who struggled to get off blocks and took poor angles.

Posted By: bonefish Re: Browns pick Sione Takitaki 80th overall - 04/30/19 02:54 AM

Then you watch his highlight reel and he looks like an animal.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TUnyEUcJJWk

Posted By: cfrs15 Re: Browns pick Sione Takitaki 80th overall - 04/30/19 02:55 AM
His highlights are great. When you see his peak you can see why we took him in the third round. If he can be consistent then he can be a beast. If he's not consistent he's not playable on downs one through three.
Posted By: jfanent Re: Browns pick Sione Takitaki 80th overall - 04/30/19 02:57 AM
Reminds me of this story from grammar school:

Posted By: lampdogg Re: Browns pick Sione Takitaki 80th overall - 04/30/19 03:03 AM
Originally Posted By: bonefish

Then you watch his highlight reel and he looks like an animal.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TUnyEUcJJWk



If I had a highlight package of all my best moments on the tennis court, I'd look like Roger Federer.

I have faith in our football guys, so I'll reserve judgement. I hope he makes it.
Agreed. If he learns and can channel his play he could turn into a good LB. If nothing else he shows a lot more enthusiasm and hustle than Jamie Collins.
Posted By: lampdogg Re: Browns pick Sione Takitaki 80th overall - 04/30/19 03:37 AM
I forgot about Collins. Already.
Posted By: Clemdawg Re: Browns pick Sione Takitaki 80th overall - 04/30/19 04:53 AM
Quote:
How are you saying that Taki squared?


Yes, at times.
Depends on who I'm talking to. Some of my dummy friends wouldn't get it.

And... it looks great on the screen.

I'm just a fan of puns and wordplay. Anything to keep the creative juices squiring...
wink
Posted By: eotab Re: Browns pick Sione Takitaki 80th overall - 05/01/19 02:38 PM
I have never experienced a Browns' draft where outside of our first pick Greedy. Every pick after will or can influence our Special Teams.

Every pick has a special attention to special teams and a possible progression to a starting position.

O D and ST...we were so deprived of Offense and Defense that who was concerned about Special Teams and it showed as we were so so inconsistent over the years. This is the first time we have a draft class which really is one of the weakest in a long time. We were void of impact picks...#49 our first and it was well used.

But our thought process is well these kids will not get a starting job most likely so their only way to be on our roster is Special Teams and those who don't have a starting job returning will be competing their butts off for a ST job.

I can see the thought process behind this draft class for us and we utilized it to perfection.

Cannot wait to see our ST set the tone of the games!

jmho
Makes a lot of sense EO. We drafted guys that will play on ST and improve them which was a weak spot for us last season. All of them have ability to become starters down the road so this will give them a chance to learn while still contributing to the team. Seems very smart to me. Excellent move.
surprising to see he's that forward about it then
I am not getting on the messenger, but I think I am a pretty good reader and I am not quite getting how the author is saying that Wolf is making it pretty clear that Takitaki is going to be a starter?

The coaches decide who starts, right?
Posted By: eotab Re: Browns pick Sione Takitaki 80th overall - 05/04/19 03:54 PM
I didn't like the fact that he would bring his right hand across to the top of the left shoulder and give it a little rub. As if there is a pain there which is not a good thing to have on a position that uses the shoulder in his trade of tackling. Hope he is OK...
Posted By: CalDawg Re: Browns pick Sione Takitaki 80th overall - 05/05/19 12:42 PM
Originally Posted By: Versatile Dog
I am not getting on the messenger, but I think I am a pretty good reader and I am not quite getting how the author is saying that Wolf is making it pretty clear that Takitaki is going to be a starter?

The coaches decide who starts, right?


Exactly what I was thinking. Wolf said nothing of the sort, and Freddile & Wilks will decide who plays when and where.
From the start it seems to me that Wolf has been the most vocal defending this pick, can only speculate any meaning to this, but the first part seems true.
Originally Posted By: THROW LONG
From the start it seems to me that Wolf has been the most vocal defending this pick, can only speculate any meaning to this, but the first part seems true.


I would agree, wolf lights up when he talks about him..also did you happen to see that episode of "building the Browns" when Dorsey let everyone know they were taking Taki...perhaps I looked into it too much, but I didn't get the sense anyone was overly thrilled...then again, maybe that's how they always are.
Originally Posted By: eotab
I didn't like the fact that he would bring his right hand across to the top of the left shoulder and give it a little rub. As if there is a pain there which is not a good thing to have on a position that uses the shoulder in his trade of tackling. Hope he is OK...


If you're referring to what he did at around the 1:55 mark, I'd say there's nothing to worry about and you're reading too much into it. That was definitely not a "oh, something hurts" rub. Zero question in my mind about that. If anything, that looked much more like an itch or a nervous tick sort of thing... and I can't believe that we're actually talking about trying to read anything into one movement during a press conference.

Sometimes, scratching an itch is just scratching an itch wink
Posted By: lampdogg Re: Browns pick Sione Takitaki 80th overall - 05/11/19 12:28 AM
What a great read that is, thank you for posting.

I hope he makes it, if he doesn't I doubt it'll be through a lack of effort.
Posted By: BADdog Re: Browns pick Sione Takitaki 80th overall - 05/11/19 12:40 AM
Here is to hoping he turns into our ray lewis. He is the type of player I thought we would take with our second round pick. A fast crazy man ! love the pick!
Posted By: Ballpeen Re: Browns pick Sione Takitaki 80th overall - 05/11/19 01:18 AM
The guy is a mad dog in a meat market.
Posted By: lampdogg Re: Browns pick Sione Takitaki 80th overall - 05/11/19 01:31 AM
His wife looks nice.
Posted By: BADdog Re: Browns pick Sione Takitaki 80th overall - 05/11/19 04:40 AM
Originally Posted By: lampdogg
His wife looks nice.


She could turn my life around wink
Posted By: Ballpeen Re: Browns pick Sione Takitaki 80th overall - 05/11/19 08:44 AM
Dorsey has shown the ability to pluck some pretty darn good players out of the mid rounds. Maybe this kid is another.
Posted By: FATE Re: Browns pick Sione Takitaki 80th overall - 05/11/19 02:39 PM
Originally Posted By: Ballpeen
The guy is a mad dog in a meat market.

Don't go Junkin this thread up with bad karma!
Posted By: jfanent Re: Browns pick Sione Takitaki 80th overall - 05/11/19 06:36 PM
Ouch! Hope there's no Junkin in this bunch.
Posted By: lampdogg Re: Browns pick Sione Takitaki 80th overall - 05/12/19 01:26 AM
Originally Posted By: BADdog
Originally Posted By: lampdogg
His wife looks nice.


She could turn my life around wink


Right???
Posted By: eotab Re: Browns pick Sione Takitaki 80th overall - 05/13/19 03:47 PM
Just being cautious...he actually did it more than once. I get accused all the time of being a Homer, so I'm not good at this negative possibility. Just worrying about a possible too good to be true situation with our rookies...lol laugh

An itch..hmmm
good news
Posted By: lampdogg Re: Browns pick Sione Takitaki 80th overall - 05/26/19 01:38 AM
Is his name pronounced C-O-Nay?

Or C-Own?

Serious question.... and also, is it tacky-tacki or taKEY-taKEY?
Sione Takitaki, B.Y.U. ….. “See-OH-nay TAH-kee-TAH-kee”
Posted By: lampdogg Re: Browns pick Sione Takitaki 80th overall - 05/26/19 02:10 AM
Got it, thanks. I wasn't trying to be cute, I just had been wondering about it..,
Posted By: hitt Re: Browns pick Sione Takitaki 80th overall - 07/22/19 12:46 AM
All players have to go thru more extensive physicals than almost any of us have endured. History, Ernie Davis, do you really think our front office would waste a pick on someone physically unable to compete. I trust our front office AND doctors.....GO BRowns!!!
Did I miss something? Is he rumored to be injured?
Sione Takitaki: How his presence fills a need for the Cleveland Browns defense in 2019
By Jake Burns

https://expo.cleveland.com/sports/g66l-2...se-in-2019.html

BEREA, Ohio -- NFL life takes some getting used to. Even for someone who plays the game as aggressively and passionately as Sione Takitaki.

The rookie linebacker has played all over the field. He's aligned as a 3-4 edge linebacker, and in the middle in 4-3 schemes. BYU made the switch to the 4-3 and it was successful in large part due to Takitaki's prowess in the middle.

The Browns took note of that physical linebacker when preparing for the 2019 draft. They selected Takitaki in third round with a desire to add some pop and effort to the linebacker room. His high energy and desire to chase perfection also caught their eye.

Takitaki discussed his play style after Saturday's first full pad practice. “I feel like I am a high-energy guy so I just go out there and try to attack stuff and do everything right."

However, Takitaki's desire to play fast and passionately has to be throttled down on occasion. The veterans took note of his high intensity and it led to a couple early issues in non-pad practices.

"Like you said, it kind of got chippy." Takitaki continued, "that is just me being a rookie not understanding what the NFL is and coming out here and practicing right. ... I have been learning from the vets and the coaches to just to play under control, keep everyone healthy and things like that.”

The learning curve is unavoidable. Especially at a position so difficult to master quickly.

Takitaki will be looking to eliminate as much of that learning curve as possible in order to help the defense as quickly as possible.

"THEY HAVE ME AT MIKE"
Takitaki has been the vocal leader each time he's on the field. That role is typically reserved for the middle linebacker, who has a direct communication with the defensive coordinator through a large chunk of the play clock to get the defensive call right.

Takitaki knows it's his job to pass along the play and bark out the role of his teammates on each snap.

"They have me calling the plays, closing the front. It's something I am definitely comfortable with."

Takitaki might have played in multiple roles within the BYU defense, but he knows where he prefers to align, and the Browns took him in the draft with the desire to use him accordingly.

"I feel like I'm a Mike linebacker, I'm a vocal guy, can come in and control things and that's why this is something I'm comfortable with. Going left to right, dropping in pass coverage, all of that. I feel comfortable doing those things from the middle."

Look at any quality middle linebacker; those who do it well have a mixture of instinct and athleticism that challenges interior linemen or tight ends. Takitaki has both traits, but he needs to keep working on the mental side.

Growth in processing is where Takitaki admits he has to keep getting better every day. This takes an immense amount of time, and upwards of thousands of reps at the position.

The ideal part of this scenario is there's no rush. For the first time in a long time, the rookies can grow at their own pace.

"PATIENCE IS TOUGH"
The challenge for Takitaki is remaining patient. He is backing up a Pro Bowl linebacker in Joe Schobert, who has the Browns' trust earned over the last three years.

Takitaki knows his role is to be ready if needed. But that doesn't make sitting on the sidelines easy.

"Feel like every day I'm starting to get more comfortable. Tomorrow I'm going to improve in something, then the next day something else. Finally by the first game I should be all right."

He figures to back up Schobert and make an impact on special teams. He knows the importance of the latter from his days at BYU. The Browns also know the importance of having a quality player behind Schobert in 2019.

The defense was noticeably less effective when Schobert missed four weeks in 2018. With Takitaki as the backup, they hope there won't be a big dropoff in quality of play.

The message is clear. Grow comfortable within a defense set to accentuate his best skills, learn from those veterans in front of you, and make an impact wherever needed.

"I just have to work on being consistent," the rookie said Saturday. "Go out there and learn the playbook, play fast, play physical and be consistent in those areas every day and I will give myself a good chance."

The Browns have the best of both worlds working right now. They have their current middle linebacker, but with Takitaki they seem to have a young player they believe in for the future as well.

Tough decisions will eventually have to be made. But for now, the status quo is a good formula for the middle of the Browns defense.
I think every team needs a few of those crazy intense guys, and he appears to be one of them
Posted By: BADdog Re: Browns pick Sione Takitaki 80th overall - 07/31/19 12:28 AM
I was hoping we draft a guy just like him. Sooo glad he is here hope it all works out I think it will.
Yeah same here. Early returns suggest that he’s a wild man
Originally Posted By: BADdog
I was hoping we draft a guy just like him. Sooo glad he is here hope it all works out I think it will.
Posted By: BpG Re: Browns pick Sione Takitaki 80th overall - 07/31/19 02:42 PM
I am with the Veterans on this one. It's idiotic to be running wild in camp. End up hurting someone in light contact drills who is a starter when you might not play anything but special teams all year.
Posted By: eotab Re: Browns pick Sione Takitaki 80th overall - 07/31/19 04:22 PM
Originally Posted By: hitt
All players have to go thru more extensive physicals than almost any of us have endured. History, Ernie Davis, do you really think our front office would waste a pick on someone physically unable to compete. I trust our front office AND doctors.....GO BRowns!!!


Just an FYI...I'm not stupid...lol laugh

Obviously "IF" there was a slight injury it would have been in our camp or gym or workouts since the draft. Not an existing injury before joining the Browns!
Quote:
Just an FYI...I'm not stupid...lol


Learn something new everyday brownie Just kidding Tab you know that smile


I listened to Freddies presser today and I loved his reply about TakiTaki not wrapping up on a tackle.
Posted By: lampdogg Re: Browns pick Sione Takitaki 80th overall - 08/03/19 12:22 AM
Love the guy's name lol... Takitaki.... High motor helps.

STs this year with some occasional subbing in, see what happens later.
Originally Posted By: lampdogg
Love the guy's name lol... Takitaki.... High motor helps.

STs this year with some occasional subbing in, see what happens later.
Agreed ... he’ll probably be a very good STs player I imagine
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