Redskins, Brian Orakpo unlikely to reach new contract today

The Washington Redskins and linebacker Brian Orakpo are unlikely to work out a new contract before today's 4 p.m. deadline for players with the franchise tag,

The Washington Redskins and linebacker Brian Orakpo are unlikely to work out a new contract before today's 4 p.m. deadline for players with the franchise tag, according to CSN Washington's Rich Tandler.

The one-year franchise tag for Orakpo is scheduled to pay him $11.45 million, but the three-time Pro Bowler wants a long-term contract. Orakpo, who turns 28 at the end of the month, had 10 sacks and returned an interception for his first career touchdown last season.

Tandler detailed Orakpo's unhappiness with the franchise tag:

"I have to prove myself again, huh?" Orakpo said in April. "I don't have to prove myself to anybody. I'm already proven in this league. I don't have to prove anything to anybody. That goes for fans, that goes for media. Anybody. I'm well-proven in this league. If it doesn't work out, then it doesn't work out, but I don't have to prove anything to anybody."

If Orakpo and Washington do not agree to a new contract, the franchise tag would again be an option next season, but at a higher salary. Despite the contract dispute, Orakpo has been a full participant during Washington's offseason. In 64 career games for Washington, Orakpo has 39.5 sacks.

h/t Pro Football Talk

- Paul Palladino