BEREA, Ohio — You want your local newsmakers to be open and honest with you, right? Let's be clear, then.
"Let's Be Clear" is all about transparency. WKYC has a clear, mobile newsroom that we're taking across the state over the next few weeks to talk to those making headlines in Ohio. Whether you agree with the guest, disagree, or are a fan of them, we know you have questions.
We continued Season 2 Friday from Berea with a trio of interviews with the Cleveland Browns.
First, we spoke with 2019 80th overall draft pick LB Sione Takitaki.
You can re-watch the full interview below:
The Browns drafted Takitaki with the 80th pick of the 2019 draft. Over 41 career games in four years with the BYU Cougars, Takitaki registered 241 total tackles, including 145 solo stops and 96 assists.
"It's definitely been a crazy experience to get the call, the whole process leading up to it," Takitaki said of the 2019 draft. "I've kind of been enjoying it. I've been wanting this since I was a little kid. I'm happy to be in this situation. I'm thankful for the Cleveland Browns organization for bringing me in."
Takitaki revealed a comical moment during draft night, noting that he didn't know the Browns had their eye on him. When he received the call from General Manager John Dorsey, he was in a not-so convenient place.
"At the time, I really needed to use the restroom," he recalled. "I saw Cleveland was next, never really talked to them, so I was like, ah, a perfect time to use the restroom. And as soon as I sit on the toilet, I get the ring. I stand right up immediately, I don't even have to use the restroom anymore. I'm ready to rock."
Takitaki said his family had a big party to celebrate his new team and NFL career, which he can't wait to begin. Since childhood, Takitaki says his dad has guided him to success with sound advice.
"He says, you always want to be the hammer, not the nail," he said.