The Steelers took a leap of faith when they elected to pick up outside linebacker Bud Dupree's fifth-year option, paying him over $9 million for the upcoming season.
That money likely eases the hard fact that the Steelers, on the other hand, have not given the 26-year-old former first-round pick an extension.
'It's fun, it's fine with me," Dupree said Sunday morning. "I'm out here, so it is what it is. I'm going to play my best, do my best for them and whatever happens happens."
In fact, Dupree said he prefers his current situation.
"I'm straight," he said. "I'd rather it just be like this right now. I'm straight with (one year left on deal). I'm going to go out and do my thing. I'm going to help the team and not be selfish.
"Even though it is a contract year, I can't be selfish. So I've got to make sure I do stuff that's beneficial towards the unit as a whole and keep my hair on fire and keep playing to my best ability."
Noticeably slimmer this offseason, Dupree was asked if the Steelers and his agent, Todd France of CAA, have had any discussions on finding a long-term deal.
Bud Dupree believes he can break out this year and have a double digit sack season. #Steelers @937theFan pic.twitter.com/hlCI9Z9ikU
— Josh Rowntree (@JRown32) July 28, 2019"No… I don't even ask my agent," he replied. "I just want to go out and play to my best ability and have my best year yet."
Dupree, who claimed he "loves the organization" and would be open to staying in Pittsburgh beyond this season, has contributed just 20 sacks to the defense since being taken 22nd overall in 2015. But he feels 2019 will be a different story.
"A big year," he said. "Double (digits sacks). I'm definitely there. I'm going to have a big year. This is the year that we really need it as a unit and, also, for myself."
There is big money is being a pass rusher. The median yearly rate for the top 5 highest paid outside linebackers in the NFL is around $18 million, with Chicago star Khalil Mack pulling in $23.5 million in 2019.
"That just puts more fire up under you to go out and have a great year," Dupree said. "Guys have their best years in their contract year. Going out, (you have to) make sure that confidence is the key with yourself and with the team."
Hear more from Bud Dupree below.
