3 AFC North rivals the Ravens should try to sign in free agency
By Mike Luciano
2. Sione Takitaki, LB, Cleveland Browns
While the Ravens will try to retain Patrick Queen in free agency, the most likely situation seems to be letting the high-priced free agent walk in free agency while replacing him with an internal replacement in former Clemson star Trenton Simpson. If Simpson is not ready to go, Takitaki might need to be on their radar.
After starting his career as a two-down thumper who was a complete liability in coverage, Takitaki has improved enough to where he can hold his own in coverage. Playing alongside Roquan Smith, arguably the best linebacker in the AFC, will make anyone who plays next to him look solid.
The Ravens must look at Sione Takitaki in free agency
Takitaki isn't a linebacker in the mold of what Baltimore has typically prioritized (namely speed over strength) in the last few years, but it's hard to imagine a former linebackers coach in Zach Orr not being interested in a player who has a nonstop motor with a vice-grip that brings down ball carries easily.
Losing Queen and Malik Harrison would be tough to swallow, but not so tough the Ravens should use a top-75 pick to draft a replacement. Rather, a player like Takitaki would allow Simpson to shine while also providing tremendous run defense and tackling ability without breaking the bank.