By Matt Papiernik, @Matt_Papiernik on Twitter
SteelerNation.com
In case you didn't see my previous articles, I am going to be publishing several articles breaking down the contracts, performance, and likelihood that certain players will be members of the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2020. Now that the off-season is in full view for the team, there are going to be several roster decisions that will need to be made as the Steelers are pressed up against the salary cap yet again. Continuing on with this series of articles, next up to focus on is Bud Dupree.
Bud Dupree, OLB, 5 Seasons with the Steelers
Contract
Unrestricted Free Agent
2019 Performance
Coming into the 2019 season, there was not a consensus on what Bud Dupree could offer the Pittsburgh Steelers. Many believed he was a bust and they need to move on, while others saw flashes of potential still and wanted to give him more time. Based on the 2019 season, more time was all he needed. He posted his best season to date no matter what way you look at it. He continued to absolutely dominate in the run game, he set career highs in sacks (11.5), tackles (68), QB hits (17), and forced fumbles (4). There are a couple things that aided Bud Dupree in his breakout season. First, he was asked to drop into coverage much less in 2019 as compared to years past, which helped him focus on moving forward and not having to move backwards as much. Also, the secondary was much improved this year with the additions of Steven Nelson and Minkah Fitzpatrick, making opposing QB's hold the ball longer, giving Dupree more time to beat blocks. Essentially, Dupree was put in a better position to succeed this season, and it resulted in a career year.
2020 Roster Likelihood: 99% Chance
Final Thoughts: Bud quieted a lot of his doubters in 2019 with his best season to date. Many thought he wasn't even worth the 5th-year option the Steelers decided to pay him going into last year, but a lot of them are singing to a different tune now. Whether it be with a new contract, franchise tag, transition tag, luggage tag, however, I see Bud being in a Steelers uniform next year unless something crazy happens.
Let us know what you think Bud Dupree's future with the Pittsburgh Steelers is below!
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