3 players Steelers can sign to replace Bud Dupree

Bud Dupree’s decision to leave in free agency isn’t a disaster for the Steelers. Here are three guys Pittsburgh can sign to replace him. 

The Steelers enjoyed quality production from Bud Dupree during his tenure, but his decision to leave the team in free agency gives Pittsburgh an opportunity to secure an upgrade. The simple truth is that the team’s front office should like their chances to improve on Dupree’s PFF grade of 60.2 last season.

Dupree isn’t a bad player, but the idea that he was some sort of dominant edge rusher for the Steelers vastly overstates his impact on Mike Tomlin’s defense. He was a quality sack artist, but many of his successful forays into the opposing backfield came when he was unblocked. Combine that with the benefit Dupree received from playing alongside guys like T.J. Watt, Cameron Heyward, and Stephon Tuitt and it’s easy to understand how his numbers became inflated.

The challenge for the Steelers now is to select the right free agent to replace Dupree. It won’t be a cheap proposition for Pittsburgh, but the right edge addition could actually elevate the team’s defense in 2021. Steelers fans should keep a close eye on the following three free agents.

3. Ndamukong Suh

Admittedly, Suh isn’t really an edge rusher. He is, however, a defensive lineman that is still capable of harassing opposing quarterbacks. Tyson Alualu’ss departure leaves Pittsburgh with a massive hole at nose tackle and Suh could fill it emphatically.

Suh isn’t an overall upgrade over Alualu at this late stage of his career, but he is the superior pass rusher. He might want to return to the Buccaneers for a shot at another ring, but the Steelers could turn his head with the right financial offer.