The Los Angeles Chargers announced Wednesday that they’ve signed veteran edge rusher Bud Dupree to a contract extension — a move that offers both immediate stability and long-term mentorship at a position undergoing significant change.
Dupree, who joined Los Angeles last offseason, was a quietly impactful piece in 2024, recording 6.0 sacks, 10 quarterback hits, a forced fumble, an interception, and two passes defensed — all while playing 546 defensive snaps in a rotational role. At 32 years old, Dupree may be entering the latter stages of his career, but he continues to show burst and savvy, making him a valuable asset for a team that just released longtime starter Joey Bosa and may be facing the departure of Khalil Mack in free agency.
Los Angeles Chargers Extend Edge Rusher Bud Dupree
The timing of Dupree’s extension — early June — speaks volumes. With Bosa off the books and Mack’s future uncertain, the Chargers’ edge rusher group has shifted dramatically from what was one of the league’s most productive rotations in 2024. Los Angeles tallied 46 total sacks last season, tied for sixth in the NFL, and preserving that pass-rush momentum will be crucial in Year 2 of the Jim Harbaugh-Joe Hortiz era.
Beyond production, Dupree’s value lies in his mentorship. He played a key role in the development of 2023 second-round pick Tuli Tuipulotu, who led the team with 8.5 sacks in his sophomore season. As Tuipulotu prepares to step into a full-time starting role in 2025, Dupree’s presence provides leadership and reliable depth — the kind most teams would envy in a third edge rusher.
He’ll also be leaned on to help develop rookie fourth-rounder Kyle Kennard and compete alongside a host of unproven young pass rushers. Among them are Tre’Mon Morris-Brash and Chris Collins, both on low-cost deals and likely battling for roster spots this summer. Caleb Murphy, who played sparingly on defense but contributed on special teams, will also be in the mix.
The edge group now features:
- Tuli Tuipulotu: Coming off a breakout season with 8.5 sacks and 11 pass deflections, he’s penciled in as a starter.
- Bud Dupree: Reliable veteran with strong 2024 production and key leadership intangibles.
- Kyle Kennard: Intriguing rookie developmental piece.
- Caleb Murphy / Chris Collins / Tre’Mon Morris-Brash: Young depth options competing for backup roles.
The biggest wild card remains Khalil Mack, who posted 6.0 sacks, 15 QB hits, and two forced fumbles last season while earning his ninth Pro Bowl nod. If the Chargers can bring him back, they’d retain one of the most dangerous veteran duos in the league. If not, the edge room becomes more of a developmental project, dependent on internal growth and potential additions via free agency.
Either way, re-signing Dupree sends a clear message: the Chargers value his on-field production, locker room presence, and his role in helping usher in the next wave of pass rushers.
As Dupree put it after last season:
“We feel like we took the right step this year, getting right back on track. Instead of just making it to the playoffs, you want to win those playoff games and continue to have moments striving to get to the big game.”
To take that next step in 2025, the Chargers will need contributions across the board — and Bud Dupree, even in the twilight of his career, remains a trusted piece of that puzzle.
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