Former Kentucky LB/DE Bud Dupree signs with new NFL team

Former Kentucky standout Bud Dupree is on the move. After spending the past 2 seasons with the Tennessee Titans, the Georgia native is heading home to play for the Atlanta Falcons.

According to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, it is a 1-year deal worth up to $5 million for Dupree. ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler shares that the Pittsburgh Steelers were heavily involved, but would only offer Dupree a 2-year contract. Dupree played for the Steelers from 2015-to-2020.

The #Falcons are giving Bud Dupree a 1-year deal worth up to $5M, source said. Another addition to Atlanta’s defense. https://t.co/jZ4fV6KMwI

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) April 14, 2023

The Steelers were heavily in the mix on a Bud Dupree deal but Dupree preferred a one-year deal. Steelers prefer two-year deals on contracts of substance. So, Dupree is off to Atlanta, as @ZachKleinWSB said.

— Jeremy Fowler (@JFowlerESPN) April 14, 2023

A first-team All-SEC selection in 2014, Dupree is entering his 9th NFL season. His professional career began in 2015 when he was drafted No. 22 overall by the Steelers.

After 6 seasons with the Steelers, Dupree played for the Tennessee Titans the past 2 seasons. He’s coming off 11 regular-season appearances, all starts, in 2022. Dupree recorded 18 tackles, including 6 TFL and 4 sacks, along with 2 fumble recoveries and 1 forced fumble.