Surprise, Brian Orakpo wants a long-term contract rather than the franchise tag.
That was the message the Redskins pass-rusher conveyed to ESPN’s Josina Anderson, telling her he was fine with the tag, for now.
“I’m excited to continue to play football. I’m glad we’ve made the first step, but hopefully we can still get things done in the long run,” he said. “I don’t have a problem with the decision [the Redskins] made, but I still want a long-term deal. This is new to me. I’m just letting this play out to the end.
“I’m excited to be with the Redskins as of right now, but now we will go from here. It’s always good to try and finish up with the team that drafted you. However, it is a business and I understand the business. If it works out then it works out. At the very least I’m happy they took this step forward.”
Orakpo wouldn’t comment on whether he thought he should be tagged as a linebacker or a defensive end (and the $1.6 million difference therein), which he probably doesn’t need to.
Having that gray area in his back pocket will only help Orakpo at the bargaining table, when the two sides talk again about that long-term deal he wants. The Redskins have until July 15 to negotiate, now that they’ve secured his rights.
On whether he should be tagged as a LB or DE?
“I can’t really comment on that right now.”