Top 25 2015 NFL Free Agents with predictions

Oct 12, 2014; Glendale, AZ, USA; Arizona Cardinals running back Andre Ellington (38) is pursued by Washington Redskins linebacker Brian Orakpo (98) at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

#25  –  OLB Brian Orakpo

2014:  7G, 24 tackles, 0.5 sacks

The once-dominant Orakpo has found himself set to hit free agency at the worst of times, following an injury-shortened season in which he appeared in seven games, recording just half a sack.  Orakpo played under the franchise tag in 2014 following 10.0 sacks the season prior, but a torn pectoral muscle was his downfall yet again.  He has now appeared in just 24 of Washington’s last 48 games.

While a return to Washington isn’t at all out of the question, the Redskins did select OLB Trent Murphy in the 2nd round last offseason, who stepped in for Orakpo following his most recent injury.  Even with Orakpo coming off a strong 2013 season, the Redskins were not falling over themselves to bring him back, and especially with a new General Manager in place, it may be time for a change.

On the open market, Orakpo is a likely candidate for a one-year “prove it” contract that would set him up for a multi-year contract next offseason at age 29.  The skill and physical makeup are clearly there, but with three torn pectoral muscles since the end of 2011, his huge potential will be matched by a huge risk.

Prediction:  Washington Redskins, San Diego Chargers, Atlanta Falcons, Tennessee Titans, Cleveland Browns

Next: #24: An electric backfield option