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5 bold predictions for Steelers in 2019

By Rucker Haringey

PITTSBURGH, PA - OCTOBER 07: Head coach Mike Tomlin of the Pittsburgh Steelers looks on during the game against the Atlanta Falcons at Heinz Field on October 7, 2018 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Joe Sargent/Getty Images)
PITTSBURGH, PA - OCTOBER 07: Head coach Mike Tomlin of the Pittsburgh Steelers looks on during the game against the Atlanta Falcons at Heinz Field on October 7, 2018 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Joe Sargent/Getty Images) /
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TAMPA, FL – SEPTEMBER 24: Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Bud Dupree (48) during the first half of an NFL game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on September 24, 2018, at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, FL. The Steelers defeated the Bucs 30-27. (Photo by Roy K. Miller/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
TAMPA, FL – SEPTEMBER 24: Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Bud Dupree (48) during the first half of an NFL game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on September 24, 2018, at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, FL. The Steelers defeated the Bucs 30-27. (Photo by Roy K. Miller/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) /

3. Bud Dupree will finally break out

Given the assumption that Watt is going to see a lot of double teams this season it stands to reason that Dupree will get a lot of chances to work one-on-one. This should be the year where he finally lives up to his status as a first round draft pick.

To put it bluntly, outside linebackers in this system need to put a lot of pressure on the quarterback. The fact that Dupree’s never registered more than six sacks in a single season makes it pretty clear he hasn’t held up his end of the bargain.

The addition of Bush on the inside should also give Dupree more room to operate on the edge. He won’t be required to think as much about the run game as in year’s past. Pass rushers are at their best when they’re free to chase the quarterback with reckless abandon. That’s what Dupree should be able to do this year on the majority of his snaps.

In the end, Dupree has a strong chance to lead this defense in sacks. Don’t be surprised if he enjoys a breakout campaign where he gets to the quarterback between 10 and 12 times. Dupree would still be classified as a late bloomer, but he could be in line for a big payday down the road if he can post those sorts of numbers.

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