The Redskins were fortunate the best player available with the 13th overall pick in the draft happened to be someone that could fill a major need. The Redskins have lacked a legitimate edge pass rusher for years. They filled the void at defensive end through the years by substituting linebackers coming off the edge, but haven't had a true presence at the position since Fred Stokes, Charles Mann, and Dexter Manley.
The addition of Brian Orakpo (DE) should finally provide the Redskins with the help they've been looking for along the defensive line. Orakpo's athleticism along the line and ability to get to the quarterback in pressure situations when his team needs it the most will be welcomed, so why have him also learn how to play the "sam" linebacker position?
The Redskins have successfully duplicated failed strategies (their own, as well as others) time and time again. Last season the Redskins touted 3rd Round Draft Pick Chad Rinehart (OL) as an athletic, intelligent, and versatile lineman that could become a starter. They soon shuffled him from one position to another (OG & OT) and by the end of training camp soon realized that by throwing two different positions at him so soon he mastered neither.
If indeed Orakpo's destiny resides in becoming the edge pass rusher that can put constant pressure on the quarterback and make the big play at the end of the game when needed, then why jeopardize the future to solidify a weakness at linebacker due to a management decision? It's a simple decision. Allow Orakpo to fill out his physique as he matures and allow him to completely understand the role as he begins to dominate at the defensive end position before layering additional responsibilities, techniques, and defensive schemes from other positions onto his plate.
Placing Orakpo in the best possible position to succeed helps him and the team in the long term rather than minimize the weakness created by releasing Marcus Washington without first having his replacement on the roster. His speed and size may have the Skins thinking that he can improve the linebacking play, but if he's "The Guy" destined to play the edge in the mode of Mann and Manley then much like these two predecessors he should be given the opportunity to play at this position. The Redskins should work to solidify the linebacking play elsewhere.
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