The Steelers have signed Jason Worilds' possible replacement.
The team announced on Thursday that they have inked first-round pick outside linebacker Alvin Dupree to a four-year deal worth $9.2 million with a $4.9 million signing bonus.
Dupree, out of Kentucky, started 38 out of 47 games for the Wildcats. The linebacker put up impressive numbers in the SEC, compiling 247 tackles and 23.5 sacks during his collegiate career. His 23.5 sacks at Kentucky is the second most in school history.
The No. 22 overall pick fills an obvious need in Pittsburgh's defense, lacking pass rushers with the departure of Worlids. Jarvis Jones is projected to start, but the linebacker has only three sacks in his career.
James Harrison is penciled in at the other outside linebacker spot, though, the Steelers have said that the 37-year-old will have a reduced role next season. Pittsburgh also has veteran Arthur Moats who started nine games for the club last year.
Yet, none of the pass rushers on Pittsburgh's roster were at the caliber of Worilds, which makes sense with the team trying to fill his void by adding Dupree in the draft.
Mike Tomlin and company tend to bring along rookies slowly, however Dupree will have the green light to go after a seemingly open competition at outside linebacker.
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