Orakpo Signs, Joins Redskins at Camp
Rookie missed first team practice
By JIM IOVINO
Updated 7:29 PM EDT, Fri, Jul 31, 2009
Two missed practices won't ruin a rookie's first season. But miss any more and a productive rookie year often gets washed out.
Redskins' first-round pick Brian Orakpo won't have to worry about that happening now, as he signed a reported five-year deal with the team Thursday night. He was expected to be at Redskins Park Friday morning for Day 2 of training camp. The deal calls for $12.1 million guaranteed
The Redskins showed the normal concern on Thursday after the defensive end/linebacker missed the first two-a-day practice with his teammates.
"He's not getting better. We are not getting better as a team. When a guy holds out -- doesn't help him, doesn't help the football team. The only person it benefits is the agent, so he can recruit people next year," defensive coordinator Greg Blache said.
"What they are fighting about now -- Orakpo couldn't explain it to you in 20 years, probably. Not that he isn't a very intelligent person, but it's minute things," Blache continued. "That's our business; those things happen. We don't worry about guys that aren't here."
The Redskins now have a full squad in Jim Zorn's second training camp, as Orakpo was the only player missing due to a contract situation.
The Redskins are hoping to shift Orakpo from defensive end, which he played in college at Texas, to strong-side linebacker.
"He needs all the work he can do out here," Blache said.
Copyright Associated Press / NBC Washington
First Published: Jul 31, 2009 5:55 AM EDT
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