Sione Takitaki is a resilient and tenacious professional American football linebacker, currently on the practice squad for the Minnesota Vikings. Known for his high motor and impactful defensive plays, Takitaki has carved out a solid career in the National Football League. He was initially drafted by the Cleveland Browns in the third round of the 2019 NFL Draft. Before his professional career, he was a standout player for the Brigham Young University (BYU) Cougars, where he served as a team captain and showcased the versatility and leadership that would define his NFL journey. His path has been marked by perseverance, overcoming early life challenges and personal setbacks to become a respected player in the league.
Sione Takitaki Overview
| Full Name | Sione Takitaki |
| Date of Birth | June 8, 1995 |
| Age | 30 years old |
| Birthplace | Fontana, California, U.S. |
| Height | 6 ft 1 in (1.85 m) |
| Weight | 245 lb (111 kg) |
| Profession | Professional American Football Player (Linebacker) |
| Current Team | Minnesota Vikings (Practice Squad) |
| High School | Heritage High School (Romoland, California) |
| College | Brigham Young University (BYU) |
| NFL Draft | 2019 / Round: 3 / Pick: 80 overall by the Cleveland Browns |
| Spouse | Alyssa Penney (married 2016) |
| Children | One son, Zion (born 2024) |
| Parents | Vaimaua and Fissipeau Takitaki |
| Net Worth (as of 2025) | Estimated career earnings over $11 million |
Early Life and Education of Sione Takitaki
Sione Takitaki was born on June 8, 1995, in Fontana, California, to Vaimaua and Fissipeau Takitaki, who are of Tongan descent. He is the youngest of seven children, with four sisters and two brothers. Growing up, Takitaki was introduced to various sports, but football quickly became his passion. A significant challenge marked his teenage years when his father passed away from cancer when Sione was just 14. This loss deeply impacted him and later fueled his determination to succeed in football, viewing it as a way to honor his father’s memory and make his family proud.
He attended Heritage High School in Romoland, California, where he was a standout athlete. A three-star prospect, he excelled on both sides of the ball, playing linebacker, defensive tackle, and running back. His performance on the field garnered attention from several universities.
Sione Takitaki’s Career
College Career at BYU
Takitaki played college football at Brigham Young University (BYU) from 2014 to 2018. His time at BYU was a period of significant growth, both personally and athletically. He showcased his versatility by playing multiple positions, including defensive end and various linebacker spots. As a senior in 2018, he served as a team captain and had a stellar season, leading the Cougars with 118 tackles, a figure that ranked 31st nationally. Over his four seasons with the team, he accumulated 237 tackles, 32.5 tackles for a loss, and 14.5 sacks.
NFL Career
Cleveland Browns (2019–2023)
Sione Takitaki was selected by the Cleveland Browns in the third round with the 80th overall pick in the 2019 NFL Draft. In his rookie season, he primarily contributed on special teams. His role expanded over the years, and he became a key part of the Browns’ defense. A memorable highlight from his time in Cleveland came in Week 11 of the 2020 season, when he intercepted a pass from Carson Wentz and returned it 50 yards for a touchdown against the Philadelphia Eagles. Later that season, he recorded his first career sack on Lamar Jackson. Takitaki also made a crucial interception in the AFC Wildcard game against the Pittsburgh Steelers, helping to seal a victory. His 2022 season was cut short by a torn ACL in Week 13. He signed a one-year contract extension with the Browns for the 2023 season.
New England Patriots (2024)
In March 2024, Takitaki signed a two-year contract with the New England Patriots. His time with the Patriots was hampered by injury, and he was placed on the reserve/PUP list to begin the season.
Minnesota Vikings (2025–present)
On September 11, 2025, Takitaki signed with the practice squad of the Minnesota Vikings.
Sione Takitaki Personal Life & Family
Sione Takitaki is married to Alyssa Penney. The couple met while they were both students at Brigham Young University, where Alyssa was a scholarship swimmer. They married on June 14, 2016. Takitaki has often credited his wife for being a stabilizing and positive influence in his life, especially during challenging times early in his college career. Together, they have one son, Zion, who was born in 2024.
Takitaki is of Tongan heritage and was raised in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. His faith was a significant factor in his decision to attend BYU.
Awards and Achievements of Sione Takitaki
While Sione Takitaki has not won major NFL awards, his college career included several honors:
2018 Phil Steele All-Independent First Team
Sports Illustrated All-Bowl Team (2018)
USA Today All-Bowl Team (2018)
2019 Reese’s Senior Bowl invitation
Sione Takitaki Net Worth and Income
As of 2025, Sione Takitaki’s career earnings in the NFL are estimated to be over $11 million. His income is primarily from his NFL contracts, which have included a rookie deal with the Browns, a one-year extension, and a two-year deal with the Patriots. His contract with the Patriots, signed in 2024, was a two-year deal worth up to $6.645 million.
Legacy and Influence
Sione Takitaki’s legacy is one of perseverance and resilience. He has overcome personal tragedy and early-career missteps to build a successful career in the NFL. He is known for his high-energy playing style and his leadership qualities, which were evident from his time as a team captain at BYU. His story serves as an inspiration for young athletes facing adversity.
Interesting Facts about Sione Takitaki
His first name is pronounced “see-OH-nay” and his last name “TOCK-ee-TOCK-ee”.
During a year away from football in college, he worked in construction.
He played volleyball in high school.
He was the first BYU player ever to be drafted by the Cleveland Browns.
Controversies
During his early years at BYU, Takitaki faced disciplinary issues that led to multiple suspensions and a brief dismissal from the team and the university in 2016. These issues included a fight and pleading guilty to misdemeanor theft. However, he demonstrated significant personal growth, and with the support of his wife, he was able to turn his life around, return to the team, and eventually become a team captain.
Social Media Presence
Sione Takitaki maintains a presence on social media, where he shares updates about his career and personal life. His wife, Alyssa, also has a notable online presence and has gone viral on TikTok for sharing insights into the life of an NFL family, particularly the uncertainties of free agency.
Final Words about Sione Takitaki
Sione Takitaki’s journey in the NFL is a testament to his hard work and dedication. From a challenging upbringing and a turbulent start to his college career, he has emerged as a respected and impactful linebacker. His aggressive playing style and leadership on the field have made him a valuable asset to every team he has played for. As he continues his career with the Minnesota Vikings, Takitaki’s story of redemption and perseverance remains a compelling narrative in the world of professional football.
