There’s a chance the Pittsburgh Steelers are going to be on the hook for $9.2 million for outside linebacker Bud Dupree in 2019. As of now, Pittsburgh has agreed to Dupree’s fifth-year option but nothing is set in stone. Dupree has underperformed since being a first-round pick in 2015.
If the Steelers decide not to pay Dupree and let him walk, here are six guys who potentially could be on the market.
DeMarcus Lawrence
Dallas Cowboys EDGE Demarcus Lawrence is only 26 years old and has topped 10 sacks in each of the past two seasons. It isn’t clear if Dallas will go all in to get Lawrence back in the fold for the future but if the Cowboys do not, he’s a guy Pittsburgh should open up the checkbook for.
Za’Darius Smith
Baltimore Ravens edge rusher Za’Darius Smith had his best season in 2018, just in time to cash in. His 8.5 sacks should be enticing to Pittsburgh and at only 26, he’s still young enough his best football is well ahead of him. Smith would also come cheaper than Lawrence and steal a player from the hated Ravens.
Shane Ray
The situation is very different for Denver Broncos linebacker Shane Ray. He’s largely untapped potential and isn’t the guy you commit to fully. But considering Ray is more likely to be a player signed on a one-year deal to prove he can play, he won’t break the bank and could allow Pittsburgh to keep Dupree at the same time.
Dee Ford
It is still up in the air if the Chiefs will use the franchise tag on outside linebacker Dee Ford. Despite having 13 sacks in 2018, his costly penalty in the playoffs has fans calling for his head. If Kansas City chooses to let Ford walk, he’s a talent very similar to Lawrence and will be expensive.
Preston Smith
Washington Redskins linebacker Preston Smith is an interesting case because he’s not as flashy as some of the other guys on this list but he’s incredibly consistent. He set career highs in tackles (53) and sacks (4.0) in 2018 and at 26 is still ascending as a talent. His size and ability to defend the run as well as rush the passer makes him particularly interesting to the Steelers.
Frank Clark
The longshot on this list is Frank Clark. He is the only legitimate pass-rushing threat on the Seattle Seahawks roster and everyone involves know it. Seattle almost has to use the franchise tag if the two sides can’t come together on a deal but you cannot rule him out just because he’s so talented.
