Brian Orakpo

Brian Ndubisi Orakpo (born July 31, 1986) is an American football outside linebacker for the Tennessee Titans of the National Football League (NFL). He played college football for the University of Texas, and was recognized as a unanimous All-American. He was drafted by the Washington Redskins with the thirteenth overall pick in the 2009 NFL Draft. He has been selected to three Pro Bowls.

Early years

Orakpo was born in Houston, Texas to parents Gloria and Arthur Orakpo, who are immigrants from Nigeria. His siblings are Jennifer (born 1988) and Michael (born February 5, 1991). He played high school football at Lamar High School in Houston, Texas. He played defensive end and tight end and was a two-time First-team all-district selection. He also played basketball from his freshman to junior years.

College career

Orakpo attended the University of Texas, where he played for coach Mack Brown's Texas Longhorns football team from 2004 to 2008. He was redshirted as a freshman in 2004, but in 2005 he played in all 13 games and started in one. He made an immediate impact for the Longhorns, helping them finish 10th in the nation at defense, recording 27 Tackles, a half sack, a forced fumble and recovered fumble. His play earned him Defensive Freshman of the Year and first-team Freshman All-America by The Sporting News.