Bud Dupree (48) Christopher Hanewinckel-USA TODAY Sports

Steelers have rare free-agent visit

By Aaron Becker | Last updated 3/31/23

The Steelers met with a familiar face on Thursday but what transpired was certainly unusual.

Pittsburgh hosted free-agent pass rusher Bud Dupree, who played with the team from 2015-20. However, there have been no reports that a deal was made, making it a rarity as not many players visit and leave without a contract.

Bud Dupree officially visiting Steelers today. Not many players visit and leave without a contract. We shall see in this case.
— Mark Kaboly (@MarkKaboly) March 30, 2023

The biggest concern heading into the visit was Dupree's health, which may be the reason the two sides couldn't come to an agreement quite yet. Dupree has played in just 11 games in three straight seasons.

The Steelers' 2015 first round pick hasn't looked the same since he left to join the Titans in 2021. Dupree has just 35 tackles, seven sacks, two forced fumbles and two fumble recoveries the last two years in Tennessee.

He totaled 231 tackles, 39.5 sacks, eight forced fumbles, three fumble recoveries and one interception during his time in Pittsburgh.

Maybe a reunion is all the 30-year-old needs. Dupree wouldn't have to be the guy as he would backup linebackers T.J. Watt and Alex Highsmith, giving him the opportunity to get fully healthy and contribute when his number is called.

There is still time for Dupree to join forces with his former team, so Steelers fans shouldn't give up on the idea quite yet.

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