Redskins edge defender Brian Orakpo has signed his one-year franchise tender, the Redskins announced today (Twitter link). The two sides could still decide to work out a longer-term agreement at any point, but signing the tender ensures that Orakpo is under contract for the 2014 season on a one-year deal worth $11.455MM.
Orakpo started 15 games for the Redskins last season, recording 60 tackles, 10 sacks, and returning an interception for a touchdown. The 27-year-old ranked fourth among 3-4 outside linebackers according to Pro Football Focus’ metrics (subscription required), recording positive grades not only as a pass rusher, but also against the run and as a coverage man.
While a multiyear extension between the Redskins and Orakpo remains possible, it sounds like the team may prefer to see him play out his one-year deal before deciding whether to lock him up. New head coach Jay Gruden suggested as much to reporters in Orlando yesterday.
Now that Orakpo has signed his tender, three of the four players who received the franchise tag before this month’s deadline have officially come off the free agent market. Like Orako, Greg Hardy signed his franchise tender from the Panthers, while Nick Folk worked out a long-term contract with the Jets. Of 2014’s franchise players, only the Saints’ Jimmy Graham remains unsigned.