Alvin “Bud” Dupree

Kentucky, RLB/RE

Height: 6.3

Weight: 268

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Athleticism: A+

Perhaps the top athlete on the defensive side of the ball in this year’s draft class. Quickness and burst are elite and shows excellent agility and bend. Also has proven he can drop back into coverage and hang with tight ends. Takes good sharp angles on his pass drops. Shows good hands to make the interception when the opportunity presents itself. Versatility to play both defensive end and as a rush linebacker.

Pass Rush: B-

Developing as a pass rusher but has the tools to be a double digit sack artist. Does not have the best get-off but is quick off the snap and explodes upfield. Has better burst lining up from a two point stance than with his hand in the dirt. Does not always get the sack but is the rare exception when he is not pressuring the quarterback when the ball is released. Possesses elite athleticism, but needs to add more strength to bull his way through blockers and get to the quarterback. Doesn’t have much in the way of pass rush moves and will need to develop an arsenal to be successful in the NFL. Gets his hands up at the line to try and tip passes.

Run Defense: C

Doesn’t have the same impact versus the run as he does when rushing the passer. Doesn’t gain penetration when playing the run and tends to just occupy blocks. Is a beat late disengaging from blocks and can let the ballcarrier breeze by him. Does not engage until after the handoff is made, and is not the best at finding the ballcarrier when engaged with a blocker. Holds his ground and does not get moved backward. Rarely gets knocked off his feet by blockers.

Technique: B-

Not so much of a square up tackler as he is a chase tackler. Doesn’t deliver jarring hits, but is a reliable tackler nonetheless. Has a strong punch to disengage despite lacking prototypical arm length. Plays with proper pad level and gets leverage to anchor and to get under blockers’ pads.

Intangibles: A+

Has pristine character, both in terms of football and his own personal conduct and involvement. Instincts are good on the field and works to constantly improve his football IQ. Has a high motor and brings it on every snap. Chases like few other defensive linemen/edge rushers.

Red Flags: Tweener, Raw Talent

Bottom Line: Alvin Dupree is in the running for the top senior prospect in the entire 2015 draft class. His superior athleticism and production in the toughest conference make his ability hard to ignore. While Dupree will need to polish up his pass rushing ability, he has the natural tools and work ethic that make him a relatively low risk prospect despite the room for improvement he still has. Dupree’s ability to fit into any defensive scheme will make him highly attractive on draft day and could put him into the top ten, if not top five.

Comparison: Aldon Smith

Grade: 9.3 (1st Round)

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