Bud Dupree Bio
Alvin “Bud” Dupree Jr. is an American professional football linebacker for the Los Angeles Chargers of the National Football League (NFL). He played college football for the University of Kentucky and was drafted in the first round of the 2015 NFL Draft by the Pittsburgh Steelers, where he had significant success. Over the years, Dupree has demonstrated his skills in various teams including the Tennessee Titans and the Atlanta Falcons, proving to be a notable player in the league.
Early Life and Background
Bud Dupree was born on February 12, 1993, in Macon, Georgia. He was raised in Toomsboro, Georgia, where he attended Wilkinson County High School in Irwinton. During his high school years, Dupree was a standout athlete, excelling in both football and basketball. He was a three-year starter at defensive end and a four-year starter at tight end, showcasing his versatility on the field. As a senior, he achieved over 1,000 receiving yards and 10 touchdowns on offense, while also recording 62 tackles and 10 sacks on defense. His impressive performance earned him First-team All-state honors from the Georgia Sports-writer Association and the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. Dupree was recognized as a three-star recruit by Rivals.com and was also a member of the Future Business Leaders of America.
Path to American Football
After high school, Bud Dupree continued his football career at the University of Kentucky. He played for the Kentucky Wildcats from 2011 to 2014, where he made a significant impact on the team. As a true freshman, he participated in 12 games and recorded 21 tackles, 2.5 sacks, and one fumble recovery. In his sophomore year, he started all 12 regular-season games, accumulating 91 tackles, 12.5 tackles-for-loss, and 6.5 sacks. Dupree’s junior year saw him switch from linebacker to defensive end, where he continued to excel, ranking second on his team with 61 tackles and leading with 9.5 tackles-for-loss. His senior season in 2014 was particularly noteworthy, as he was voted team captain and recorded 74 tackles, 12.5 tackles-for-loss, and eight sacks, including his first career interception returned for a touchdown. Dupree graduated from the University of Kentucky with a degree in community and leadership development in May 2015.
Bud Dupree Career
Early Career (2015-2020)
Bud Dupree was selected by the Pittsburgh Steelers in the first round of the 2015 NFL Draft as the 22nd overall pick. He was the first player from the University of Kentucky to be drafted in the first round since 2003. Dupree signed a four-year contract with the Steelers worth $9.22 million, including $8.63 million guaranteed. He made his professional debut in the 2015 season opener against the New England Patriots, where he recorded two solo tackles and a sack. Over his first few seasons, Dupree developed into a key player for the Steelers, achieving a career-high of 11.5 sacks in 2019 and earning the franchise tag in 2020.
Breakthrough (2021-2023)
In March 2021, Dupree signed a five-year, $82.5 million contract with the Tennessee Titans. However, his time with the Titans was marred by injuries, including an abdominal injury that placed him on injured reserve during the 2021 season. Despite these setbacks, Dupree managed to record four sacks in the 2022 season. In March 2023, he was released by the Titans and subsequently signed with the Atlanta Falcons, where he tied for the team lead with 6.5 sacks in 2023.
Notable Works and Milestones
Throughout his career, Bud Dupree has been recognized for his athletic prowess and contributions to his teams. His signature work includes his standout performances with the Pittsburgh Steelers, where he became known for his ability to pressure quarterbacks and make impactful plays.
Bud Dupree Award Nominations
Bud Dupree has received several accolades throughout his career, including First-team All-SEC honors in 2014 and Second-team All-SEC honors in 2013.
Bud Dupree Awards Won
While Dupree has not accumulated a significant number of awards, his recognition as a top performer in college football and his subsequent success in the NFL highlight his achievements.
Bud Dupree Family
Bud Dupree was born to Alvin Dupree Sr. and Sophia Stephens. He has maintained a close relationship with his family throughout his career.
Personal Life
Bud Dupree is known to be an avid dog lover. The nickname “Bud” was given to him by his godmother, who had a dream about him playing football. In February 2022, Dupree faced legal issues when he turned himself in to police after being cited for misdemeanor battery charges related to an incident at a Nashville Walgreens. A court hearing was scheduled for a later date.
