Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk, citing a league source, reports that the Falcons and Redskins are believed to be the “leaders” to sign free agent OLB Brian Orakpo.
- According to Florio’s source, Orakpo has interest from four NFL teams.
Earlier in the day, Dianna Marie Russini reported that while Orakpo and the Redskins are trying to work out an agreement on a new contract, other NFL teams that she’s spoken to are showing “significant interest” in him.
To no surprise, Washington did not their franchise tag on Orakpo before today’s deadline, which means he’s a week away from reaching the open market.
The idea of Orakpo departing in free agency has been talked about for several months now, and dates back to October of last year when was placed on injured reserve with a torn right pectoral.
The Falcons are in desperate need for a pass-rusher, and is clearly in the discussion as one of the best available edge rushers in this year’s free agent class.
Orakpo, 28, played out the 2014 season under the team’s franchise tag and is once again in line to be an unrestricted free agent. Last year, he made a salary of $11.455 million.
In 2014, Orakpo recorded 24 tackles, a half sack and a pass defense over the course of seven games.
We have him listed as the No. 23 player in our Top 100 Free Agents list.
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