The Redskins’ coaching staff said it expects linebacker Brian Orakpo and left guard Kory Lichtensteiger to suit up for Sunday’s regular season opener in New Orleans.
Orakpo has not played since August 8, when aggravated the surgically repaired pectoral muscle near his left shoulder while making a tackle against the Bears.
“He’s been practicing well,” defensive coordinator Jim Haslett said on Thursday afternoon. “He had that one scare in the Chicago game, but I expect him to be ready to go.”
Orakpo said he’ll know more when he wakes up Friday morning after going through a padded practice Thursday afternoon.
Lichtensteiger, meantime, should be able to return to the lineup after missing almost all of the preseason following a second surgical procedure on his right knee in 10 months, Coach Mike Shanahan.
Shanahan also said it’s possible Lichtensteiger could start but be occasionally spelled backup Maurice Hurt if necessary.
“If there’s no setback…” Shanahan said of Lichtensteiger’s availability. “He had full practice [Thursday] and there was no setback. Hopefully there’s none” Friday.
If Orakpo and Lichtensteiger suit up, that would leave strong safety Brandon Meriweather as the only starter on the active roster who has been ruled out for Sunday’s game at the Superdome. Meriweather is sidelined 2-4 weeks with two sprained ligaments in his left knee.
Expect another update on Orakpo and Lichtensteiger following Friday’s practice at Redskins Park.
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