Alvin “Bud” Dupree Jr. Bio
Alvin “Bud” Dupree Jr. is an American professional football linebacker who currently plays for the Los Angeles Chargers of the National Football League. Born on February 12, 1993, in Macon, Georgia, Dupree has established himself as a formidable pass rusher during his decade-long NFL career. He was selected in the first round of the 2015 NFL Draft by the Pittsburgh Steelers and has since developed into one of the league’s most consistent defensive threats, accumulating 61 career sacks across four organizations. Dupree attended Wilkinson County High School in Irwinton, Georgia, before playing college football at the University of Kentucky, where he earned First-team All-SEC honors in 2014. His journey from a high school standout to an NFL veteran exemplifies his dedication to the sport and his ability to adapt at the highest level of professional football.
Early Life and Background
Dupree grew up in Toomsboro, Georgia, where he developed his passion for football at a young age. His father is Alvin Dupree Sr. and his mother is Sophia Stephens. The nickname “Bud” was given to him by his godmother, who reportedly had a dream during Dupree’s mother’s pregnancy that people would call him Bud and that he would play football. This prophetic nickname would eventually become synonymous with his productive professional career. Dupree attended Wilkinson County High School in Irwinton, Georgia, where he balanced athletics with academic pursuits, including being on the honor roll and participating in Future Business Leaders of America.
At Wilkinson County High School, Dupree was a three-year starter at defensive end and a four-year starter at tight end. During his senior year, he recorded over 1,000 receiving yards and 10 touchdowns on offense while also posting 62 tackles and 10 sacks on defense. His exceptional performance earned him First-team All-State honors from both the Georgia Sportswriters Association and the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. Dupree was also a standout basketball player and was ranked as a three-star recruit by Rivals.com, setting the foundation for his future collegiate career at the University of Kentucky.
Path to the NFL
Dupree enrolled at the University of Kentucky in 2011, where he immediately began making an impact as a true freshman. He appeared in 12 games with three starts at linebacker, recording 21 tackles, 2.5 sacks, and one fumble recovery. His sophomore season saw a significant jump in production, as he started all 12 regular season games and tallied 91 tackles, 12.5 tackles-for-loss, and 6.5 sacks. His performance ranked 10th in the Southeastern Conference in tackles and seventh in the FBS for sacks and tackles for loss. After this breakthrough season, Dupree switched from linebacker to defensive lineman for his final two years at Kentucky.
As a junior in 2013, Dupree continued his upward trajectory, appearing in 11 games and ranking second on his team with 61 tackles while leading the team with 9.5 tackles-for-loss and seven sacks. He recorded a career-high 13 tackles against Mississippi State and finished sixth in the SEC in sacks. In his senior season of 2014, Dupree was voted team captain and started all 12 games at defensive end. He accumulated 74 tackles, 12.5 tackles-for-loss, and eight sacks, and notably recorded his first career interception, which he returned for a game-winning touchdown in a 45-38 victory against South Carolina. Dupree graduated from the University of Kentucky on May 9, 2015, with a degree in community and leadership development.
Alvin “Bud” Dupree Jr. Career
Pittsburgh Steelers (2015-2020)
The Pittsburgh Steelers selected Dupree in the first round with the 22nd overall pick in the 2015 NFL Draft. He became the first University of Kentucky player taken in the first round since Dewayne Robertson went fourth overall to the New York Jets in 2003. Dupree signed a four-year contract worth $9.22 million with $8.63 million guaranteed and a $4.97 million signing bonus. As a rookie, he began the season as the backup left outside linebacker behind veteran Arthur Moats but appeared in all 16 regular-season games with five starts, finishing with 26 combined tackles, four sacks, and a pass deflection.
Dupree was named the starting left outside linebacker to begin the 2016 season, but a groin injury in early September placed him on injured reserve. He was activated on November 19, 2016, and returned to action, recording 4.5 sacks and 24 total tackles that season. In 2017, Dupree played 15 games with 13 starts and recorded six sacks and 40 total tackles. The Steelers picked up the fifth-year option on his contract in April 2018, worth $9.23 million, and Dupree responded with a standout season, recording his first career interception return for a touchdown and finishing with 42 tackles, 5.5 sacks, and three passes defended.
His 2019 season proved to be a career-defining year, as Dupree recorded 11.5 sacks, four forced fumbles, and 68 combined tackles while earning AFC Defensive Player of the Week honors. The Steelers placed the franchise tag on him on March 16, 2020. However, his season was cut short when he tore his ACL in Week 12 against the Baltimore Ravens, ending his campaign with eight sacks and 31 total tackles. Dupree completed his Steelers tenure as a reliable and productive defender, solidifying his reputation as a starting-caliber linebacker in the league.
Tennessee Titans (2021-2022)
On March 19, 2021, Dupree signed a lucrative five-year, $82.5 million contract with the Tennessee Titans, marking a significant investment in his abilities. However, his tenure with the Titans was plagued by injuries. He was placed on the physically unable to perform list during training camp and later suffered an abdominal injury in Week 10 of the 2021 season. Despite these setbacks, he appeared in 11 games that year, recording three sacks and 17 total tackles. The 2022 season saw similar challenges, with Dupree recording four sacks, 18 total tackles, one forced fumble, and two fumble recoveries in limited action.
The Titans released Dupree on March 16, 2023, concluding a two-year tenure that did not meet the high expectations set by his contract. Despite the injury struggles, Dupree demonstrated resilience and the ability to contribute when healthy. His time in Tennessee provided valuable experience in a new defensive system, and he remained determined to prove his value as he sought opportunities elsewhere in the league.
Atlanta Falcons (2023)
Dupree signed with the Atlanta Falcons on April 14, 2023, returning to his home state of Georgia. He started 16 games and recorded 6.5 sacks, tying for the team lead in that category. This season represented a bounce-back for Dupree, as he displayed the consistency and productivity that had characterized his early career with the Steelers. His ability to stay healthy and contribute at a high level reestablished his value as a reliable defensive end in the league.
Los Angeles Chargers (2024-Present)
On May 11, 2024, Dupree signed a two-year, $6 million contract with the Los Angeles Chargers. He quickly integrated into the Chargers’ defensive scheme, finishing the 2024 season with six sacks, 28 total tackles, one interception, and two passes defended. His performance demonstrated his continued ability to pressure the quarterback and make plays in the backfield. On June 4, 2025, Dupree signed a one-year, $6 million contract extension, reflecting the Chargers’ confidence in his contributions to the team.
Driving Style and Strengths
Dupree’s playing style is characterized by his explosive burst off the line of scrimmage, large frame, and outstanding power and strength. His ability to generate pressure on opposing quarterbacks has been a consistent asset throughout his career. He possesses the athleticism to rush the passer effectively while also demonstrating competence in zone coverage. Dupree’s relentless motor and physicality have allowed him to make plays in both the running and passing games, making him a versatile piece for any defensive line.
Notable Events and Milestones
Throughout his career, Dupree has achieved several notable milestones. His 2019 season with the Steelers, where he recorded 11.5 sacks and earned AFC Defensive Player of the Week honors, stands out as his most productive campaign. He has accumulated 61 career sacks, 349 total tackles, 13 forced fumbles, and two interceptions, including one returned for a touchdown. His first career sack came against future Hall of Famer Tom Brady in his NFL debut, setting the tone for a career built on disruptive playmaking.
Alvin “Bud” Dupree Jr. Career Statistics
Across his NFL career spanning from 2015 to 2025, Dupree has established himself as a productive linebacker with consistent pass-rushing ability. His career totals reflect a player who has made significant contributions to every team he has joined, with his 61 career sacks representing his primary value to defensive units. His versatility has allowed him to make plays in various aspects of the game, including forcing turnovers and disrupting opposing offenses.
Career Highlights
Dupree’s most notable season came in 2019 with the Pittsburgh Steelers, where he recorded 11.5 sacks and was recognized as AFC Defensive Player of the Week following a standout performance against the Indianapolis Colts. His ability to force fumbles has been a consistent hallmark of his game, with 13 career forced fumbles demonstrating his capacity to create turnovers. His interception return for a touchdown in 2018 against Ryan Fitzpatrick highlighted his ability to make game-changing plays when the opportunity arises.
NFL Statistics
| Category | Career Total |
|---|---|
| Total Tackles | 349 |
| Sacks | 61 |
| Pass Deflections | 18 |
| Interceptions | 2 |
| Forced Fumbles | 13 |
| Fumble Recoveries | 5 |
| Defensive Touchdowns | 1 |
Alvin “Bud” Dupree Jr. Family
Family Background
Dupree was raised in Toomsboro, Georgia, by his father Alvin Dupree Sr. and his mother Sophia Stephens. His family has been a source of support throughout his football career, from his early days playing at Wilkinson County High School through his professional career. The inspiration for his nickname came from his godmother, who reportedly dreamed during his mother’s pregnancy that he would be called Bud and would play football, a prophecy that proved accurate.
Personal Life
Beyond football, Dupree is known as an avid dog lover. He has maintained connections to his Georgia roots throughout his career, and his journey through multiple NFL teams has allowed him to build a wide network within the league. Dupree has remained focused on his athletic career while navigating the challenges that come with professional sports, including the physical demands of playing linebacker and the adjustments required when transitioning between organizations.
2025 Season Performance
The 2025 season marked another chapter in Dupree’s evolving career with the Los Angeles Chargers. After signing a one-year extension worth $6 million in June 2025, he continued to serve as a veteran presence on the Chargers’ defensive line. Despite recording two sacks and 16 total tackles through the season, Dupree’s experience and leadership remained valuable assets to the team as they navigated their campaign.
The Chargers’ defensive scheme provided Dupree with opportunities to contribute in various roles, allowing him to leverage his veteran savvy and technical skills. While his statistical output showed a reduced role compared to his peak years, his ability to mentor younger players and provide steady performance against the run added depth to the Chargers’ defense. The 2025 season reflected the natural evolution of a long NFL career, where veteran leadership often matters as much as statistical production.