Bud Dupree files grievance, disputing he is a linebacker

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Bud Dupree signed his franchise tender on April 23, but he has filed a grievance disputing what his position is, Ian Rapoport of NFL Media reports.

The Steelers want to pay Dupree as a linebacker rather than as a defensive end. The franchise tag for linebackers is $15.828 million, and it’s $17.788 million for defensive ends.

Shaq Barrett has done the same with the Buccaneers, agreeing to sign the tender while filing a grievance over his position.

The Ravens and Matt Judon were in the same situation before agreeing to a compromise that will pay him $16.8 million this year.

Dupree and the Steelers have until July 15 to work out a long-term deal but are not close, per Rapoport.

Dupree is coming off a career-best 11.5 sacks last year.

12 responses to “Bud Dupree files grievance, disputing he is a linebacker

  1. In the Steelers 3-4, this guy is definitely a linebacker. If you’re standing up pre-snap, you’re a linebacker. And what a tough life to bitch about 15.8 million, looking for 17.7

  2. I guess they could break down all the film and figure out what percentage of plays he lined up as a LB, and DE. That would be simple enough. But what about the times he lined up as a LB, but then rushed the passer. Or when he lined up on the line, but then dropped into coverage. Really? Is this really happening? If I were the Steelers I’d trade him.

  3. The NFL has to fix this, as well as other Franchise designations. Maybe just by having a tag amount for an “edge player.”

  4. There’s no way to make everyone happy. I seem to recall Jimmy Graham having a similar beef with the Saints calling him a tight end when he felt that he was used as a wide receiver. And there are probably others.

  5. Doesn’t Bud drop back into zone coverage about 20% of the time?

    Definitely a 3-4 linebacker.
    Very disappointed by Bud’s move.

  6. GREEDY!
    Please tell me again that only NFL owners are “greedy”.
    Players are the trendiest people on the planet.

  7. I think the Steelers should move him and use the saved $$ to secure T.J. Watt to a long term contract.

  8. The QB tag is higher, I mean if you’re gonna reach you might as well really reach.

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