Steelers OLB Bud Dupree signs his one year franchise tender

The Pittsburgh Steelers made a risky move this offseason when they decided to place the franchise tag on pass rusher Bud Dupree. The move forced the team to carry a hefty cap hit, roughly $16 million dollars, in 2020, but they were able to retain Dupree coming off a career year.

While placing the franchise tag on a player is one thing, the player has to sign the tag before it becomes official. Before the player signs the tender, the team can rescind the contract and move on from the player. But once the deal is signed, it is official. This is something which was done by Dupree Thursday, and made official by the Steelers Thursday.

Dupree is coming off his career-best season from 2019 where he amassed 11.5 sacks and 68 tackles. Dupree also added four forced fumbles and two fumble recovery‘s. Paired opposite of T.J. Watt, the duo are arguably the best edge rushing combo in the NFL.

By signing his tag now, but Dupree can no longer negotiate a contract with another team under the terms of the non-exclusive franchise tag. The only way Dupree can play the 2020 season is with the Pittsburgh Steelers unless they decide to use him as part of a trade. With the contract being signed, Dupree is now a tradable asset which was not the case before signing the tender. Additionally, the Steelers have until July 15 to where they can work out a long-term deal with Dupree even though he has already signed the contract.

Be sure to stay tuned to BTSC for the latest news and notes on the Pittsburgh Steelers as the 2020 NFL Draft is officially here!