Brian Orakpo Injury: Redskins LB Knocked Out of Game With Injured Shoulder

Washington Redskins linebacker Brian Orakpo injured his shoulder in the first quarter of Saturday's preseason game, and the team's official Twitter feed has confirmed that he will not return.

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#Redskins OLB Brian Orakpo's status has been downgraded to OUT for the remainder of the game. This is not a surprise in preseason action.

— Redskins (@Redskins) August 19, 2012"

UPDATE: Sunday, August 19 at 11:30 a.m. EST

Brian Orakpo is expected to undergo an MRI on his injured shoulder, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter.

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Washington LB Brian Orakpo is scheduled to undergo an MRI today on his shoulder but the Redskins don't believe his injury is serious.

— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) August 19, 2012"

The Redskins have to hope this injury isn't serious. Orakpo is one of the top linebackers in all of football and a major reasons people believe the 'Skins have a chance at the playoffs. Robert Griffin III may already be Washington's most exciting and polarizing player, but Orakpo is the most important player on their defense. 

---END of UPDATE---

The two-time Pro Bowler went down late in the first quarter when he was pursuing Chicago Bears receiver Devin Hester. He remained on the field for a few moments before heading to the sideline.

The severity of the injury is not yet known, but the Redskins will be hoping to get Orakpo back as soon as possible. He has recorded 28.5 sacks in his career, and he's been Washington's best pass rusher for the last few seasons.

As always, we will have all the updates on Orakpo's injury when they become available.