Outside linebacker Bud Dupree, a former first-round draft pick by the Steelers, who has 46.5 career sacks, is set to sign a one-year contract with the Falcons. The deal was confirmed by the team and his agent, after it was first reported by Zach Klein of Channel 2 Action News.
“We want to continue to add good football players who are going to impact the team whatever position,” Falcons general manager Terry Fontenot said recently.
In addition to signing Dupree, the Falcons released outside linebacker Quinton Bell, defensive lineman Amani Bledsoe and safety Jovante Moffatt.
Dupree, who played at Kentucky and Wilkinson County High, was with the Steelers from 2015-20. He played the past two seasons with the Titans.
Dupree, who is 6-foot-4 and 269 pounds, will be expected to help improve the Falcons’ pass rush. He had 11.5 sacks in 2019.
With Dupree, defensive end Calais Campbell (99 career sacks), defensive tackle David Onyemata (23 sacks) and defensive end Joe Gaziano (1 sack), the Falcons have added linemen who have totaled 169.5 sacks.
Campbell signed a one-year, fully guaranteed $7 million contract. Onyemata signed a four-year deal worth $35 million, with $24.5 million guaranteed.
In addition to the lineman, the Falcons added linebackers Kaden Elliss and Tae Davis, safety Jessie Bates and cornerback Mike Hughes to the defense. Elliss and Davis have recorded eight sacks and two sacks, respectively.
After two seasons with 38 sacks in 34 games, it was reasonable to conclude that the Falcons planned to add to their edge rushers as they prepare for the 2023 season.
The Falcons have selected three edge rushers in the past two drafts – Ade Ogundeji, Arnold Ebiketie and DeAngelo Malone.
The signing of Dupree continues Year 3 of the rebuilding of the Falcons under Fontenot and coach Arthur Smith. The team also will feature a new defensive coordinator in Ryan Nielsen.
The Falcons, who hold the eight overall pick in the NFL draft, could add more players to the defense. The draft is set for April 27-29 in Kansas City, Missouri.
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