Kentucky is having a pretty good year this year. They may not be in the runnings at the top of the division, but they are battling against tough teams like Florida, South Carolina, and Mississippi State. A big part of their success and ability to play with tough teams, is due to the play of Alvin (Bud) Dupree. Dupree is a RS Senior that has a knack for getting after the QB. Dupree has 20 sacks, 125 Tackles, 30.5 Tackles for a loss, 9 QB hurries, and 1 INT for a TD, since 2011. These numbers show how active he is just about every game. The interception for a TD came this year against South Carolina, which helped lead Kentucky to an upset win. Against Mississippi St, Dupree was consistently getting after Dak Prescott, matching his athleticism.
Strengths: Dupree is an athletic DE with the speed and flexibility to get around the corner. He is consistently getting after the QB with ease, has shown to be very productive. Dupree possesses prototypical size at 6’4 264, but he also has the ability to leap and get his hands into passing lanes. He always seems to show up in big games. He doesn’t quit on plays often. If the play gets behind him, he will pursue and hustle.
Weaknesses: Dupree is very athletic, but is still a little raw. At times, Dupree struggles to get off blocks and can disappear from a game. His play is a little undisciplined and could use some cleaning up. He has the length to separate blocks, but he needs to get a little better at using his hands to get off blocks. Not much of an edge setter.
Overall: Dupree is an athletic play maker, that gets after the QB. He is an explosive rusher that has very good closing speed. Dupree fits mainly as a DE in a 4 man front. He is athletic enough to play 3-4 OLB but his best position is a 4-3 DE. He should be able to step in day one as a Nickel rusher. Look for Dupree to go pretty early Day 1.
Video Courtesy of DraftBreakdown.com
