Raheem Orr

Strengths: The Texans just keep the ‘tweeners coming. Raheem Orr is another collegiate defensive end that will attempt to make the successful transition to becoming a 3-4 rush linebacker in the NFL.

With his skills and athleticism, Orr’s got a shot. Strong, with 4.7 speed and a quick first step, Orr has natural pass rush instincts. As the Scarlet Knights’ team MVP in 2003, he led the Big East in tackles, tackles for a loss, and he was second in sacks administered. He also registered 19 quarterback hurries, proving he knows how to blow up an offensive backfield. Behind Orr’s leadership as the team’s co-captain last year, Rutgers had their winningest season since 1998.

Amazingly, Orr played some of his best games against Virginia Tech. In 2002, he stormed the backfield for two sacks and added two forced fumbles. Then in 2003, Orr racked up ten tackles and three tackles for a loss, including another 2.5 sacks.

Areas of Concern: Rutgers isn’t exactly a football mecca (sorry Rashod Kent), and that’s evident when the school gets excited about a five-win season. Orr, while he arrived at Rutgers as a linebacker, still will find it difficult to perform any coverage responsibilities in the NFL.

He’s going to come to camp this summer a little raw, too. Orr missed significant time his first two years in college suffering both nagging injuries and academic troubles.

2004 Expectations: Orr will have a logjam in front of him if he expects to see any playing time on defense for the Texans. With Jason Babin drafted in the first round, Antwan Peek drafted a year ago, plus others like Kailee Wong, Shantee Orr and fellow draftee Charlie Anderson, Orr will be primarily fighting for a spot on special teams this fall. Long term though, and Orr may have the opportunity to provide valuable depth as a pass rusher from the outside linebacker position.

by Keith Weiland

YEAR G TAK TFL SACK 2003 12 82 19.5 8.5 TOTALS 31 169 34.5 14.5 Raheem Orr Home

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