2015 NFL Draft: Pittsburgh Steelers Wisely Take Alvin Dupree

By Luis Tirado Jr. | May 1, 2015

The Pittsburgh Steelers truly made a wise decision when they selected linebacker Alvin Dupree in the 2015 NFL Draft. At 6’4″ and 269 pounds, Dupree fits the mold perfectly for what the Steelers needed to address on their defense. I know when I recently made the case for the Steelers to draft him, it just was a perfect fit for both sides since Dupree will definitely be a force to be reckoned with one he steps foot on the football field.

Dupree comes with quite the resume as at Kentucky as he was an absolute monster on defense. With 247 tackles, 23.5 sacks and a lone interception to his credit, Dupree will transition nicely to a Steelers team that was in dire need of youth and speed at linebacker.

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Many mock drafts across the internet projected the Steelers to draft a top-notch cornerback with their No. 22 overall pick but they couldn’t pass up on the tremendous potential of Dupree. They had a major issue with bringing the pressure to quarterbacks last season since as a defensive unit, they only contributed 33.0 combined sacks last season.

Well, that is all going to change now that Dupree is in the mix. With his speed, frame and ability to get to the quarterback in a hurry, this will be the draft choice that will have the Steelers faithful smiling from ear to ear for years to come.

The Steelers will have a new dimension to them come next season due to losing some key veterans that decided to call it quits. Both Troy Polamalu and Ike Taylor have officially retired which means other plays have to step up, especially Dupree who will have a huge responsibility to come in and usher in a new era of defense for the Steelers.

Defensive coordinator Keith Butler made the right call with Dupree since they can find a solid cornerback in the 2nd Round or later in the draft. A ton of potential first-round talent have dropped dramatically as I’m sure some hidden gems await to get drafted. The Steelers should be just fine drafting the best cornerback available since quite a few are still available heading into the 2nd Round.

Apr 30, 2015; Chicago, IL, USA; Bud Dupree (Kentucky) is selected as the number 22nd overall pick to the Pittsburgh Steelers in the first round of the 2015 NFL Draft at the Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University. Mandatory Credit: Dennis Wierzbicki-USA TODAY Sports

Dupree comes with many attributes that solidify why the Steelers drafted him in a heartbeat. He has a high football IQ, has no off-the-field baggage and above all else prides himself on what he brings to the table.

He’s a natural born leader that over time, could very well be the next team captain for the Steelers as a vocal presence to rally his troops straight to victory.

As a team captain at Kentucky and judging by all the highlights I’ve seen him create, there is no doubt in my mind he’ll definitely see some starting time come next season on specific defensive schemes to utilize his strengths. Dupree also brings depth to the Steelers’ roster immediately upon arrival.

Current starting outside linebacker Arthur Moats could use the quality depth that Dupree will provide to keep him rested and efficient throughout the season. Overall, keep an eye out for what Dupree does every single time you see him on the field since he will definitely have quite the career with the Steelers.

Next: Pittsburgh Steelers: Looking back at Troy Polamalu

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