Alvin “Bud” Dupree was a mainstay at Kentucky. The senior ended his career with 247 tackles, 37 tackles for loss and 24 sacks.

Dupree finished as an All-SEC first team defensive end in 2014 after starting four consecutive seasons in Lexington. The Irwinton, Ga., native is projected to be a first round NFL draft pick and should enjoy a successful professional career.

For the Wildcats, the biggest task will be finding a defensive leader in Dupree’s absence. Kentucky’s defense features several players that could take the reins after Dupree’s departure.

Josh Forrest, LB

Josh Forrest had a breakthrough season in 2014. After recording 29 tackles in his first two seasons, the junior finished fourth in the SEC with 110 tackles. Forrest had a career-high 20 tackles in Week 13 against Tennessee and five games with double-digit tackles. The junior added 8.5 tackles for loss and a sack.

A.J. Stamps, DB

Kentucky ranked No. 44 overall in passing yards allowed, averaging 215.8 yards per game. A.J. Stamps was a crucial part of the Wildcats’ success in their secondary. Stamps (4) and teammate Marcus McWilson (3) combined for seven interceptions, including a 36-yard pick-6 by McWilson against Louisiana-Monroe. The junior was fifth among Kentucky players in total tackles (56). Stamps is a do-everything safety that excels in coverage and stopping running plays. He has the ability to lead Kentucky’s young defense in 2015.

Matt Elam, DT

Elam saw limited time as a freshman, but has the highest ceiling of Kentucky’s 2014 freshman class. The 6-foot-5, 372-pound defensive tackle ranked as the No. 1 player in the state of Kentucky and the No. 21 prospect, according to 247Sports.com. Elam has the size and explosiveness to make a surprise impact in his sophomore season, but may not have the endurance to be an every down player. Elam is a dark horse, given his limited play and experience, but could be Kentucky’s most talented defensive player in 2015.