Brian Orakpo

Brian Orakpo, a distinguished four-time Pro Bowl linebacker, enjoyed a successful 10-year career in the NFL, playing for both the Washington Redskins and the Tennessee Titans. After concluding his playing days in 2018, Orakpo has flourished as an entrepreneur and television personality. He recently ventured into the culinary world, co-founding a Gigi’s Cupcakes franchise in his hometown of Bee Cave, Texas, alongside former NFL player Michael Griffin and college friend Bryan Hynson.

Orakpo first garnered attention during his collegiate career at the University of Texas, where he was dubbed the “workout warrior.” He made an immediate impact, earning the title of Defensive Freshman of the Year and securing first-team Freshman All-America honors from The Sporting News. His college accolades include the prestigious Bronko Nagurski Trophy, the Ted Hendricks Award, and the Lombardi Award, highlighting his prowess as a defensive star. In 2008, he was recognized as the Associated Press Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year and was a unanimous first-team All-American, becoming the first Longhorn defensive end to achieve All-American status since 1995.

In the NFL, Orakpo was selected 13th overall by the Redskins in the 2009 draft and made an immediate mark by becoming the first rookie to make the Pro Bowl for the team in over three decades. He recorded 11 sacks in his debut season and garnered significant endorsements, including campaigns with Geico and Eastern Motors. After a successful six-year run with the Redskins, he spent four seasons with the Titans before retiring.

Beyond football, Orakpo has expanded his business acumen, launching the Athlete Connect app with his brother Mike, aimed at connecting athletes and trainers. He resides in Austin, Texas, with his wife Bitura and their three children, balancing family life with his entrepreneurial pursuits.