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5 Redskins prospects to watch in the 2019 East-West Shrine Game

By Jacob Camenker

BOISE, ID - NOVEMBER 24: Quarterback Brett Rypien #4 of the Boise State Broncos looks downfield for a open receiver during second half action against the Utah State Aggies on November 24, 2018 at Albertsons Stadium in Boise, Idaho. Boise State won the game 33-24. (Photo by Loren Orr/Getty Images)
BOISE, ID - NOVEMBER 24: Quarterback Brett Rypien #4 of the Boise State Broncos looks downfield for a open receiver during second half action against the Utah State Aggies on November 24, 2018 at Albertsons Stadium in Boise, Idaho. Boise State won the game 33-24. (Photo by Loren Orr/Getty Images) /
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TUCSON, AZ – SEPTEMBER 01: Quarterback Khalil Tate #14 of the Arizona Wildcats scrambles with the football past linebacker Sione Takitaki #16 of the Brigham Young Cougars during the first half of the college football game at Arizona Stadium on September 1, 2018 in Tucson, Arizona. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)
TUCSON, AZ – SEPTEMBER 01: Quarterback Khalil Tate #14 of the Arizona Wildcats scrambles with the football past linebacker Sione Takitaki #16 of the Brigham Young Cougars during the first half of the college football game at Arizona Stadium on September 1, 2018 in Tucson, Arizona. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images) /

BYU always seems to have solid linebackers on their squad. This year is no different. Sione Takitaki is a player that has been rising thanks to his performance during practices this week. And on Saturday, he will have a chance to showcase his talent on the field.

Takitaki had a great four-year career at BYU, and he capped it off by posting a career-high in tackles (119) and posting four sacks. Interestingly enough, Takitaki has posted at least three sacks in each of his four seasons at BYU. He has played as a linebacker but also has spent time on the edge, so that explains why his numbers are a bit higher in the sack department than most linebackers.

Takitaki really is a hyper-versatile player that should be a weapon in the modern NFL. He can play at linebacker in a 3-4 or 4-3 front, and can play on the edge as well. He has good tackling technique and while he isn’t the most athletic player, he has good instincts and always ends up near the ball. He also has good quickness when rushing the passer, so that is a major plus as well.

The Redskins have already met with Takitaki this week which makes sense. The team needs some help at linebacker, as they could cut Zach Brown and/or Mason Foster while Reuben Foster‘s fate is not yet known (regarding a potential suspension). Takitaki is the type of verstaile playmaker the defense could use. And thanks to his strong fundamentals and instincts, he could earn a role as a top backup or special teams option in the later rounds.

Takitaki may be able to greatly improve his stock with a good performance this week. He has already piqued Washington’s interest, so keeping an eye on him will surely be important.

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