Los Angeles Chargers Alternate Logo

Bud Dupree

Bud Dupree Player Profile

Summary

  • Drafted: Round 1, 22nd overall (2015 NFL Draft) by the Pittsburgh Steelers. Pro Football Reference

  • College: University of Kentucky. Steelers Depot

  • Key Statistics / Career: As of 2025, he has played in 146+ NFL games, recorded 59.0 sacks. Pro Football Reference In college, Dupree tallied 23.5 career sacks, making him one of Kentucky’s all-time sack leaders. UK Athletics

  • Accolades / Character: Throughout his career, Dupree has been valued for his athletic pass-rushing ability, versatility (playing both linebacker and defensive end), and his high ceiling. Gang Green Nation He has also demonstrated resilience, having come back from injuries and continued to contribute at a high level.

Strengths

  • Elite Athleticism for Size — Dupree combines power (269 lb) with explosive speed; at Kentucky he showed rare first-step quickness at his size. Gang Green Nation

  • Pass-Rush Talent / Burst — He has a very good initial burst off the edge, can close quickly, and makes plays in the backfield. Atlanta Falcons

  • Versatility in Role — Has played both DE and OLB, giving defensive coordinators flexibility to use him in multiple fronts. UK Athletics

  • Coverage Ability — In college, Dupree dropped into coverage and showed fluid movement in space, making him more than just a pure rusher. Gang Green Nation

  • Big-Play Maker — When he’s on, he can disrupt games via sacks, TFLs, and forced fumbles; his high-ceiling play is a strength. Pittsburgh Steelers

  • Experience & Durability (Later Career) — Despite injury history, he’s played many seasons, offering veteran presence and edge-rushing experience. NFL Clubs

Weaknesses

  • Inconsistency — Evaluators at his draft time noted that he “flashes” but doesn’t always dominate; plays can swing drastically in quality. Gang Green Nation

  • Run Support Against the Edge — In college and early in his pro career, his run defense was sometimes below ideal; shedding bigger blockers was not always a strength. Dawgs By Nature

  • Injury Risk — He has had significant injuries during his career (e.g., knee), which have impacted his playing time and long-term reliability.

  • Pass Rush Refinement Needed — While he has a great first step, some scouts say he needs more variety in his pass-rush moves / counter moves for sustained success. Gang Green Nation

  • Ceiling vs Consistency Trade-off — Given his style and physical traits, his upside is high, but his floor is less stable — risk of plateau if not coached well.

Fit & Outlook

Bud Dupree projects as a high-impact edge rusher on teams that want size + speed on the outside. He fits best in a front that allows him to attack off the edge, especially in sub-packages or early-down pass-rush roles. With solid coaching and a consistent role, he can still produce double-digit pressures or sacks in a season and provide veteran leadership. Long-term, his outlook is that of a rotational-to-starter pass rusher: he may no longer be a young breakout star, but he brings value in disrupting backfields, generating pressure, and mentoring younger edge players. As long as he can stay healthier, he remains a valuable weapon on the edge.