Pittsburgh Steelers outside linebacker Bud Dupree signed his franchise tender a little less than three months ago, but earlier this week he filed a grievance with the NFLPA to be classified as a defensive end rather than a linebacker, a source told ESPN.
Designated as an outside linebacker, Dupree would make $15.828 million playing on the franchise tag. As a defensive end, Dupree’s one-year salary would increase by $2 million to $17.788 million. The two sides also have until July 15 to work out a long-term deal, and though there have been talks, nothing is imminent, per source.
Dupree is technically an outside linebacker in the Steelers’ 3-4 base defense, although he frequently lined up on the line of scrimmage as an edge rusher — which would be considered a defensive end. Dupree can argue the tag designation based on his usage. Dupree is the second linebacker to file a grievance to be reclassified, joining Tampa Bay Buccaneers linebacker Shaq Barrett.
With Dupree playing under the franchise tag as a linebacker, the Steelers currently have $5.67 million in cap space.
Dupree, 27, initially signed his tender on April 23, just a few hours before the NFL Draft. A 2015 first-round draft pick, Dupree became a regular starter in the final three years of his rookie deal, but put together a career season after the team picked up his fifth-year option for the 2019 season.
Anchoring the outside linebacker spot opposite of TJ Watt, Dupree racked up a career-high 11.5 sacks along with 16 tackles for loss and 17 quarterback hits. He also forced four fumbles.
He has 200 tackles, 31.5 sacks, 6 forced fumbles and 1 interception in five seasons.