Orakpo has shoulder surgery: Redskins linebacker Brian Orakpo underwent left shoulder surgery this week after getting hurt in Week 17 against Philadelphia. "Just had successful shoulder surgery in Pensacola," Orakpo posted on Twitter. "(T)hanks everybody for their support! Now time for a speedy recovery." (Updated 01/12/2012)
Injury Report
Shoulder - Probable for start of training camp (Updated - 1/12/12)
Fantasy Analysis
Orakpo has been the consistent Redskins leader in sacks since joining the team; he had nine this season and has had at least 8.5 in every season. His tackle totals, however, leave a lot to be desired; he's consistently had between 50 and 60 total every year with minimal stats otherwise. Fantasy owners should expect Orakpo to remain this way as a No. 3 Fantasy LB. (Updated 01/12/2012).
05/07/2012 00:13 2009 NFL Draft Revisited
Before prospects even take the field, most of us are guilty of "grading" each team on how they did in the draft. While there is nothing wrong with immediately evaluating each team*s draft class, a more practical exercise is to give prospects two or three seasons to prove themselves in the NFL
Brian Orakpo has played well for the first three seasons of his career, and he will hopefully continue to improve in his fourth season. In 2011, Orakpo had 61 total tackles (34 solo) with nine sacks. He now has 28.5 sacks in his career, and if he can improve his tackle stats, his Fantasy value would rise. We consider Orakpo a No. 3 linebacker in IDP leagues that count tackles. He's worth a late-round pick, and if sacks are weighted heavily in your leagues, then you can consider Orakpo a potential starting option. (Updated 4/25/12)