Browns set to unleash rookie DT Siaki Ika soon as opportunity arises
Through 13 games this season, the Cleveland Browns have yet to have their third-round rookie defender active for a game. That’ll soon change likely, as DT Siaki Ika is going to be needed out there for the Browns due to unfortunate injuries at the position. Jordan Elliott is in concussion protocol and fellow DT Maurice […]
Through 13 games this season, the Cleveland Browns have yet to have their third-round rookie defender active for a game.
That’ll soon change likely, as DT Siaki Ika is going to be needed out there for the Browns due to unfortunate injuries at the position.
Jordan Elliott is in concussion protocol and fellow DT Maurice Hurst is out for the season, so the Browns need depth to step up in the middle of the defensive line.
“You got to be able to plug guys in and still have good performances and that’s what our goal is going to be,” said defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz on Thursday.
Ika showed some promise in the preseason but has been inactive every week this season. Ika has been behind Dalvin Tomlinson, Shelby Harris, Elliott, and Hurst this season. Cleveland doesn’t need to have more than four defensive tackles active in a game, so Ima has been the odd man out.
“Siaki (Ika) hasn’t played yet but I have great confidence that he will play well,” said Schwartz. “It’s really been a number game for him. It has nothing to do with his availability and him being ready.”
Now that an opportunity has come about, expect to see Ika active as soon as this week against the Bears. Ika is a giant human being listed at over 350 pounds, so he gives you a big plug in the middle of the defensive line.
“He’s ready to play and ready to contribute and that’s what this game is. Give an opportunity and make the most of it.”
Cleveland will likely roll with Tomlinson and Harris inside to start games but expect to see Ika rotate in on running downs. The Browns have the luxury of being able to throw edge guys like Za’Darius Smith and Alex Wright inside as well.
At last, it looks like the rookie Ika is on the brink of making his NFL debut. It’s going to be interesting to see what he can provide for the team that could clinch a playoff spot in the coming weeks.
H/t Cleveland Browns on YouTube for image of Schwartz.
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