Should the Detroit Lions trade for Bud Dupree?

Besides the NFL Draft and free agency, the trade market is a good way to acquire talent. One pass rusher could intrigue the Detroit Lions.

Investments using draft picks can yield mixed results. One player the Detroit Lions should keep a close eye on is outside linebacker/defensive end Bud Dupree.

The Pittsburgh Steelers have placed the fifth-year option on him but can revoke it. If that happens, there’s a small window of opportunity to sign a longer deal. Should a new deal not get reached, he becomes a free agent.

Unfortunately, the Steelers have already paid his $9.232 million salary. The only way that salary cap hit gets lowered is from a new contract. Only a trade can alleviate the entire figure.

So it begs the question, should the Lions entertain the idea of having Dupree on the roster? There’s a good chance it could happen.

Rumors in Pittsburgh have indicated they are leaning towards not using the fifth-year option. That doesn’t rule out a new deal to stay at a reduced rate but a fresh start looks likely for both parties.

How much would a player like Dupree cost? From a production standpoint, the cost shouldn’t be huge but there is an athletic potential fact that drives up the price.

In 54 games and 39 starts, the hybrid edge rusher has totaled just 20.0 sacks. Modest productivity for a first round pick. Ability to drift into coverage is a plus.

When it comes to athleticism, Dupree is a freak. Slightly raw, a breakout season could happen as soon as this year. The 2019 NFL Draft class is deep with pass rushers so I can understand any disagreements, but the ones with the physical traits similar to his will go fast.

Going the route of a trade could also allow the Detroit Lions to address other needs higher in the draft and still get an edge rusher with elite talent. Giving up a fourth round pick is reasonable given his age, level of play/ability, and contract. That’s solid value. Anything more than that, no deal.