As the NFL’s deadline for using the franchise or transition tag approaches on Tuesday, March 9 at 4 PM, ESPN’s Adam Schefter reports the Steelers will not be using the franchise tag on outside linebacker Bud Dupree for a second season.
LB Bud Dupree, Pittsburgh’s franchise player last year, has been informed that he will not be franchised again this year, per league source. Dupree is headed to free agency.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 9, 2021
Although this news should not be a surprise to anyone closely following the Steelers, it does confirm that Dupree is expected to hit free agency at the start of the 2021 NFL league year.