2015 NFL Draft: Bengals Draft Alvin Dupree in Latest Mock
Oct 11, 2014; Lexington, KY, USA; Louisiana-Monroe Warhawks offensive lineman Chase Regian (71) and Kentucky Wildcats defensive end Alvin Dupree (2) during the game at Commonwealth Stadium. Kentucky defeated Louisiana-Monroe 48-14. Mandatory Credit: Mark Zerof-USA TODAY Sports
In this week’s latest mock NFL draft, Fansided’s hub page has the Bengals selecting Alvin Dupree with their pick at 21. “Bud” Dupree has been a popular selection for Cincinnati throughout the off-season, so this selection comes as no surprise. Here’s what Fansided’s Luke Dahlgren had to say about the selection.
"“The Bengals had one of the worst pass rushes in the NFL in 2014, and address that immediately in the first round of the draft. Dupree displays excellent athleticism on the edge, where he routinely annihilates the opposing ball carrier. He is a superb tackler who provides a threat to opposing defenses both in the pass and in the run, but from time to time he will take bad angles to the ball.The Bengals could also go with Washington’s Shaq Thompson at linebacker, who also displays great athleticism and defensive playmaking ability.”"
Although Alvin Dupree has been a popular selection, many fans and pundits have changed courses with the selection in light of Michael Johnson‘s acquisition. Cincinnati currently has five defensive ends who are likely roster locks: Johnson, Carlos Dunlap, Wallace Gilberry, Margus Hunt, and Will Clarke. It seems unlikely the Bengals would keep six defensive ends on the 53-man roster especially when considering they may keep a third quarterback this year, which isn’t typical.
Nonetheless, Dupree’s addition to the roster is intriguing. As an incredibly athletic prospect, could Dupree prove to be a fit at strong side linebacker? He’s a passing rushing specialist, and the Bengals could send him as the fifth rusher when on the field, or at least present that threat pre-snap. And as an athletic player, Dupree has the physical capability to be effective in coverage. When watching film, it becomes clear that he would need coaching in this regard, but also that he isn’t totally inept in coverage.
Following Johnson’s acquisition the likelihood that Alvin Dupree lands with the Bengals seems to have decreased, possibly significantly. Yet, if the Bengals decide to continue adding pieces to aid the pass rush, Alvin Dupree should prove to be an incredible weapon.
Next: An In-Depth Look at Alvin Dupree