headtopics
The Houston Texans have added a seasoned presence to their linebacker group, finalizing a deal with free-agent linebacker Sione Takitaki. The 30-year-old defender was among a pair of players who worked out with the team recently, alongside former Patriots teammate Jahlani Tavai, and he has now secured a contract with the franchise.
Takitaki, who stands 6-foot-1 and weighs 245 pounds, enters his eighth NFL season after being selected in the third round of the 2019 draft. He spent the bulk of his career with the Cleveland Browns from 2019 through 2023, then moved on to the New England Patriots for the 2024 campaign. Most recently, he appeared in just three games for the Minnesota Vikings during the 2025 season before being released in January 2026.
Throughout his seven seasons in the league, Takitaki has primarily served in a rotational role on defense and contributed on special teams. In his most productive recent stretch with the Patriots in 2024, he played 11 games, participating in 27% of defensive snaps and 39% of special teams snaps, while recording 21 tackles. Known for his high-energy style, quick burst, and versatility, he brings nearly 90 games of regular-season and playoff experience to Houston's locker room.
Key Analysis
The urgency to sign Takitaki arose after veteran linebacker and special teams ace Jake Hansen suffered an ankle injury that will sideline him for multiple weeks. Takitaki's addition provides immediate depth and a proven special teams contributor, while also giving the coaching staff another option to compete for defensive snaps in a unit facing some uncertainty.
Houston's linebacker room already features a mix of experienced players like Jamal Hill and Marte Mapu, along with rookies Wade Woodaz and Aiden Fisher, all vying for roles. Takitaki will need to impress during training camp to secure a spot on the 53-man roster, but the opportunity is there for him to carve out a meaningful role, making him a player to watch as the preseason unfolds.
Originally reported by headtopics.