Redskins Top Pick: Defensive End Brian Orakpo

Can't wait to meet Donovan, Eli and Tony

In a first round that went a little differently than many expected the number thirteen pick came around and two solid players were on the board, tackle Michael Oher and defensive end Brian Orakpo, whom the team selected. Although Curly R did pooh pooh Brian somewhat in the draft preparatory this is a good pick, I had Brian rated as the top defensive end, versus the fourth best tackle at the time of the pick is a good decision.

From NFL.com's pre draft profile:

Height: 6 foot 3 inches
Weight: 263 pounds

Pros: outstanding upper body strength, can be effective both in three point position as well as a standing rusher, good field awareness, agile while engaging linemen, closes quickly into the pocket, wraps up well on tackles.

Cons: has had knee problems two of his four years at Texas, may only be a five technique in the pros, could have trouble with the four or three technique in run stoppage, body type might better be suited for strong side linebacker but may not have range for that position.

Curly R quick take: Brian was an outstanding college player, this year winning Big Twelve Conference Defensive Player of the Year, the Lombardi Award for best lineman, the Nagurski Trophy for best defensive player and the Hendricks Award for best defensive end. Incumbent defensive end Andre Carter should be very happy right now.

The Redskins did not blow up the draft and trade up for Mark Sanchez. They did not ship out Jason Campbell or Chris Cooley, they did not spend the top pick on more football porn and take a receiver for Jim Zorn's offense. This is a solid pick that will improve what should already be a terrific defense.



Brian Orakpo about to know a quarterback intimately from here.