Falcons continue to bolster defense by signing ex-Steelers linebacker

The Atlanta Falcons continue to remake their defense and look more like a threat to win the NFC South. 

Per ESPN's Adam Schefter, Atlanta is signing Bud Dupree to a one-year deal, a move that by itself might not seem significant. But when considered within the context of the Falcons' offseason, it's a potentially huge acquisition.

There's a power struggle at the top of the division after Tom Brady's retirement from the Bucs. The Saints emerged as the early front-runner, but the Falcons must be taken seriously, too. Like New Orleans, Atlanta has fixed its most glaring issue from last year.

New Orleans solved its QB conundrum by signing Derek Carr. Meanwhile, Atlanta shored up its porous defense with several huge signings.

Dupree joins fellow linebacker Kaden Elliss, safety Jessie Bates III and linemen David Onyemata and Calais Campbell as the team's highest-profile defensive additions.

Drafted 22nd overall in the 2015 NFL Draft by Pittsburgh, Dupree spent his first six seasons with the Steelers, tallying 39.5 sacks (including a career-high 11.5 in 2019).

He played for the Titans the past two seasons, but injuries prevented him from playing full seasons. Dupree played in 22 games from 2021-2022, tallying 17 QB hits, seven sacks and two forced fumbles.

Tyler Allgeier, Drake London and Kyle Pitts give the Falcons great offensive weapons. The big question that remains is whether Desmond Ridder is the right QB.

There won't be many valid excuses if he comes up short. The front office is making sure he's set up for success.