Former Steelers LB Bud Dupree Isn’t Scared Of Pittsburgh’s New Rookies: 'They Are Still Kids'

The Pittsburgh Steelers will face their former linebacker Bud Dupree in Week 3 of the 2024 regular season. Dupree, now a member of the Los Angeles Chargers, was originally drafted by the Steelers in the first-round of the 2015 NFL Draft. During his six seasons in Pittsburgh, he was a solid contributor, though he didn’t quite live up to the full expectations of his first-round status.

On Sunday, Dupree appeared on the Green Light with Chris Long podcast. During the interview, he was asked about his upcoming opponents and their offensive lines. Given that the Chargers will play the Steelers in 2024, Dupree was specifically questioned about his former team's new-look offensive line.

“They got two first-rounders. Two rookies. You got to go all day with them. You know young guys, they come out hype. You have to let them know that early on, that you are a grown man and they are still kids, so you have to make sure that you tell them that. At the end of the day man, they are two first-rounders, so they are going to be talented. You just got to make sure that when they drop the ball, you are making them pay every time.”

The Steelers have been heavily investing in their offensive line over the past couple of seasons, recognizing the critical importance of protecting their quarterbacks and establishing a strong running game. In 2023, they made a bold move by trading up in the draft to select offensive tackle Broderick Jones, a player known for his athleticism and potential to become a cornerstone of the offensive line.

Continuing their commitment to fortifying the line, the Steelers used their first-round pick in 2024 to draft Troy Fautanu, a highly-regarded prospect with the versatility to play multiple positions. The team's strategy paid off further in the second round when they were fortunate enough to draft center Zach Frazier, who was considered a tremendous value pick at that position. Frazier's skills and leadership qualities make him an excellent addition to the line.

The Steelers didn't stop there; they continued to find solid value later in the draft by selecting guard Mason McCormick. McCormick's tenacity and work ethic promise to add depth and competition to the offensive line unit.

These strategic picks reflect the Steelers' commitment to building a dominant offensive line capable of providing stability and creating opportunities for both the passing and running games. By investing in talented young linemen, the Steelers aim to lay a strong foundation for future success, ensuring their offense can operate at peak efficiency and helping to protect their quarterbacks from the formidable defenses they will face.

Dupree spoke about the addition of Fautanu and Frazier, acknowledging their solid credentials and the reason they were selected in the first two rounds. However, as a seasoned veteran at 31, he made it clear that he's not intimidated by them. To him, they are just kids, while he considers himself a grown man with years of experience.

Steelers Get To Welcome Back Bud Dupree To Pittsburgh

The early-season matchup between the Steelers and the Chargers promises to be an exciting one. Steelers fans will have the chance to welcome a former first-round pick back to Pittsburgh.

Dupree, who left the Steelers on amicable terms, is not someone Steelers fans will cheer for when he lines up against Pittsburgh. The prospect of facing a former player always adds an extra layer of excitement for fans, and they will undoubtedly be hoping to see their team get the best of Dupree in that game.

This matchup will be closely watched, as it pits the young talents of Fautanu and Frazier against the seasoned skills of Dupree, making for a thrilling and competitive encounter. Steelers fans will be eager to see how their new additions perform under the pressure of facing a familiar opponent.