Pittsburgh, PA – April 21, 2025
In a move that’s got Steelers Nation buzzing with both nostalgia and nerves, the Pittsburgh Steelers are bringing back a familiar face: Bud Dupree.
The former first-round pick and fan favorite has agreed to a one-year deal worth $4.5 million, per ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler. The signing marks a homecoming three years in the making — and a potential final chapter to one of the most explosive edge duos in recent franchise history.
“Pittsburgh always felt like home,” Dupree said in a statement. “I’ve got more left in the tank — and I want to prove it where it all started.”
⚡ Dupree’s Fall and Rise
Drafted in 2015, Bud Dupree hit his peak in 2019–2020, notching 19.5 sacks in two seasons and forming a terrifying tandem with T.J. Watt.
But an ACL tear in late 2020 derailed his rise.
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In Tennessee: 22 games, just 7 sacks
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In Atlanta (2023–24): rotational edge, 5 sacks total
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PFF grade dropped from 79.3 (2020) to 58.1 (2024)
Once feared for his explosiveness, Dupree became a cautionary tale of injury and inconsistency.
🧠 Why Bring Him Back?
With Markus Golden unsigned, and Alex Highsmith needing depth behind him, the Steelers were thin at EDGE. Dupree knows the system, the culture, and brings leadership.
“This isn’t just about sacks,” said DC Teryl Austin.
“It’s about trust, depth, and building a locker room that knows how to win.”
At just 32, Dupree might not be the same pass-rushing monster.
But as a rotational piece, paired again with Watt and Cam Heyward, he could offer value — and maybe, just maybe, one more run at a Lombardi.
🥶 The Risk
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Durability: He’s missed 18 games since 2021
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Speed decline: His burst off the edge hasn’t fully recovered
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Cap impact: $4.5M isn’t nothing for a team still managing extensions
🖤 Steelers Fans React
“Bud’s back?! Let’s gooo! One last ride with the crew.” – @WattHype47
“Hope this ain’t just a nostalgia move…” – @412RealTalk
“If he gives us even 6 sacks, this is a steal.” – @SteelCityBlitz
🔥 Final Take: Redemption, or Just Reverence?
This move isn’t about numbers — it’s about unfinished business.
If Bud Dupree can stay healthy, he could help Pittsburgh chase that elusive seventh Lombardi.
If not, he’ll still leave as a beloved part of the black-and-gold brotherhood.
“This jersey means something,” Dupree said. “And I’m not done earning it.”
🏴 Want a graphic: “Reunited: Bud x Watt 2.0”?
FanHub’s got you covered.
#Steelers #HereWeGo #ReturnOfBud #BlackAndGoldRedemption 🖤💛🔥
