BEREA, Ohio—After passing on two of USC’s high-profile linebackers on day one, the Cleveland Browns have selected Trojans linebacker Kaluka Maiava (My-ah-vah) in the fourth round of the NFL draft.
Not as well known as teammates Brian Cushing, Rey Maualaga or Clay Matthews Jr., Maiava recorded 66 tackles last season—his only year as a full-time starter. The 6-foot, 228-pound Maiava will likely play inside linebacker in coach Eric Mangini’s 3-4 system.
Maiava is from a football family. His father, Scott Mahoney, played at Colorado and he is the nephew of actor/wrestler Dwyane “The Rock” Johnson, who played at Miami.
The Browns did not have a third-round pick on day two of the draft. Cleveland has three selections in the sixth round.
