Ranking the Top 15 Edge Rusher Prospects in the 2015 NFL Draft

Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

3. Alvin “Bud” Dupree, 6’4, 269, Kentucky

Assuming he goes to a 4-3 team, rather than a 3-4 team that would utilize him at the linebacker position he worked out at at the combine, Dupree has the most upside of any 4-3 end in the draft. He’s very athletic and developed a wealth of experience playing both as a standup rusher and with a hand in the dirt at Kentucky, so he should fit in well wherever he ends up.

Dupree is a high-effort player who will pick up sacks on second-effort plays, and he generates consistent pressure on the quarterback. His pass-rushing technique is pretty well-developed, though he needs to work on taking more of a concise path to the quarterback. He’s also a solid run defender and moves across the field very well, so he’s never truly out of a play.

Dupree’s most glaring flaw is that he tends to get selfish and cut inside, leaving the outside vulnerable and exposing him. He needs to work on his tendency to over-pursue and try to get it out of his game as much as possible.

It’s not a sure thing, but Dupree seems to have a good chance of coming off the board on Day 1. He’ll be very valuable to the teams who run 4-3 schemes, and due to his size and athleticism he’s a safer pick for those teams than either of the guys who are ranked ahead of him on this list.

Next: 2. Eli Harold