There has been a ton of speculation recently surrounding the Pittsburgh Steelers and the team's former edge rusher, Bud Dupree. Many people think he would be a perfect fit to contribute behind TJ Watt and Alex Highsmith. That reality came even more real on Thursday when the pass rusher posted a picture that strongly hinted at the fact that he was in the city of Pittsburgh. It was later confirmed by Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reporter, Gerry Dulac, that Dupree was in fact there for a meeting with the organization. A reunion became even more likely.
His health will play a big role in his return, however, and it seems like he may not be quite there yet. Dupree ended up leaving the facility without a deal. In fact, contract details weren't even discussed and the team was worried about conducting a physical before bringing finances into it.
This doesn't mean Dupree won't be wearing the black and gold again in 2023, but there's a few reasons why he may have left without a deal in place. When it comes down to it, everything circles back to health. He played in 22 games in two seasons for the Tennessee Titans and the Steelers want to be sure he is 100%.
1.) The Steelers Will Discuss Internally What Next Steps Are Regarding Dupree
The free agency class on the edge is extremely light. Pittsburgh's leadership would rather not use two draft picks on the position which means the signing of Dupree is likely, but no one wanted to make any rushed decisions. If his physical didn't check out the way they expected, it's possible they wanted to talk about it internally and decide if they should wait or use his health as leverage when it comes to contract numbers.
2.) Steelers Have Draft Plans That Will Dictate Dupree's Role
This could have been both sides agreeing not to discuss financials just yet. With the respect the organization has for him, it's realistic that they were honest about potential draft plans and he isn't ready to commit because he'd already be taking a step back as third on the depth chart, but someone like Lukas Van Ness could eventually bump him down to fourth. The signing could come in May.
3.) This Doesn't Mean A Deal Is Off The Table
Patience is a virtue. If Pittsburgh wants the edge rusher back and he has expressed interest in returning, there's no reason to get everything done immediately. Both parties want to make sure that it's the right fit both philosophically and financially. There are no reports out there of Dupree visiting anywhere else. It's clear where he wants to be.
4.) Dupree's Health Isn't Where The Team Wants It To Be
The pass rusher isn't going to sign for the veteran minimum. Anyone suggesting that is wrong. If the Steelers are going to invest roughly $5 million in a back up to Watt and Highsmith, he better be healthy as can be when he signs. Pittsburgh could have expressed strong interested and suggested he come back in a month or two when he is 100% healthy per the physical.
Hold off the fireworks for now. Dupree didn't leave the facility on Thursday with a deal, but that doesn't mean he isn't going to return. It will be something to keep an eye on for the next month and him not signing a deal prior to the draft will definitely hint that the Steelers are planning to address the position there. Overall, his health his key, but his expected return to the Steel City is still alive and well.
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