Predictions for Steelers six top free agents this offseason

Bud Dupree

Signs a 1-year, 13-million-dollar a year with incentives with the Chargers

Before he suffered his injury, Bud Dupree was set to earn a massive payday after back-to-back successful seasons. Unfortunately, he tore his ACL late in the season, meaning he may have to start the season on the physically unable to perform list before playing. I see him taking a one-year deal with a decent salary that is filled with incentives to maximize his earnings. As well, he likely signs on with a competitor that can hope to get at least one decent season out of him as they try to compete for a Super Bowl.

This makes the Chargers a perfect fit, as they are likely building a competitive roster to maximize Justin Herbert being on his rookie deal. The Chargers could use another pass rusher across from Joey Bosa as they seemingly prepare to move on from Melvin Ingram. Dupree would fill that role well even as he recovers from his injury. While he may not be on the field from the start of the season, the moment he gets on it, he will become a huge threat across from Bosa.

While the rumors are circling that the Steelers will try to resign Dupree, the odds of that happening don’t seem likely. The team has limited cap space and Dupree will want a short-term deal to rebuild his market value. That means getting his first-year cap hit low will be nearly impossible. The Chargers could use another pass-rushing presence, and Dupree would be a solid veteran to fill that role.