3 Patriots on the Chopping Block After New Defensive Coordinator Hire
By Jovan Alford
3. Sione Takitaki
The Patriots could also look to overhaul their linebacker unit as Vrabel and Williams try to get this unit back on track.
Takitaki was a rotational linebacker this season in New England after signing a two-year, $6.5 million deal in free agency this past offseason. The veteran linebacker missed the first seven games of the 2024 campaign as he underwent an offseason knee scope procedure, putting him behind the eight-ball.
In the 11 games he played in, Takitaki had 21 combined tackles, while seeing 27 percent of the defensive and 39 percent of the special teams snaps. According to PFF, the veteran linebacker had a solid coverage grade in limited action (65.5 – ranked 43rd among 189 qualified LBs). But he wasn’t great in run defense with a 59.5 grade (ranked 139th among 189 LBs).
Takitaki has a potential out in his contract for 2025, meaning the Patriots could decide to part ways with the veteran linebacker, especially if Williams doesn’t think he’ll fit his scheme for next season.
However, he only has a cap hit of $3.8 million for the 2025 season, which isn’t bad. At the same time, the Patriots hope to have Ja’Whaun Bentley back on the field, who missed most of the ‘24 campaign with a torn pec.
When healthy, Bentley has been proven to get at least 100 tackles and can apply pressure to the quarterback, making life easier for the Patriots' new defensive coordinator. The Pats need to figure out what to do with Christian Elliss, who played well this season but is also a restricted free agent.
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