Arizona Cardinals: 5 First Round Options in 2015 NFL Draft
Alvin “Bud” Dupree, DE/OLB, Kentucky
Oct 11, 2014; Lexington, KY, USA; Louisiana-Monroe Warhawks offensive lineman Chase Regian (71) and Kentucky Wildcats defensive end Alvin Dupree (2) during the game at Commonwealth Stadium. Kentucky defeated Louisiana-Monroe 48-14. Mandatory Credit: Mark Zerof-USA TODAY Sports
The Cardinals’ defense was very good in 2014. The allowed on 18.7 points per game, which is good for the fifth best total in the league.
Defensive coordinator Todd Bowles appeared to be a huge reason for that success, as he used unorthodox defensive principles to confuse opposing offenses. Bowles is no longer around, but new defensive coordinator James Bettcher is expected to run the same attacking 3-4 style that Bowles had so much success with in Arizona. That being said, it is fair to wonder whether the loss of Bowles will have a legitimate impact on the Cardinals’ defensive success.
As great as the Cardinals’ defense was in 2014, they struggled to get consistent pressure on the quarterback. They only had 35 total sacks on the season (24th ranked in the NFL), with Alex Okafor leading the way with eight. If the Cardinals can find a legitimate pass rusher in the draft, it would go a long ways towards helping their defensive transition this season.
Alvin “Bud” Dupree is an intriguing pass rush prospect who would be a great fit in Arizona. Dupree has an incredible burst off the ball that allows him to immediately get the upper hand against his opponents. He has great length, which is uses very well in his pass rush moves.
Dupree shows great athleticism on tape, and took it to the next level at the combine with a 4.56 40-yard dash and 42-inch vertical leap. Those are very impressive numbers for a 6-foot-4, 269 pound man.
He also shows great change of speed abilities that really comes in handy when setting up his pass rush moves. Dupree also shows great versatility on tape, and while he would mostly be used as an outside pass rusher in Arizona, he shows the ability and natural instincts to drop back in coverage.
Dupree is a very high motor player who never gives up on the play, and is considered to be a great leader on and off the field.
The biggest knock on Dupree is his lack of pure strength. His lack of strength makes him struggle against the run at times, as it is hard for him to shake blockers once he has been engaged. Dupree relies on his agility and athleticism to make plays before the blocker gets a hold of him.
While his impressive combine numbers may put Dupree out of reach for Arizona, it is at least possible to see him slip down to them at the 24th pick. If he is available, it would be hard for the Cardinals to pass on Dupree.
Next: A Physically Imposing and Surprisingly Quick Offensive Tackle