As the Los Angeles Chargers wrap up their OTAs and await the start of mandatory mini-camp on June 16, we don't yet have any significant updates on their most intriguing roster battle— the ongoing fight for snaps at outside linebacker.
Of course, Khalil Mack, Tuli Tuipulotu, and recent first-round draft pick Akheem Mesidor have already secured their places at the top the food chain. But beyond that, there's certainly some room for major changes. Both Bud Dupree and Kyle Kennard are vulnerable, especially considering UDFA Nadame Tucker's ties to new defensive coordinator Chris O'Leary.
It remains unclear whether the Chargers would be more apt to give Dupree or Kennard's roster spot to a player like Tucker if he earns it. While Kennard had an injury-riddled and unproductive rookie season, Los Angeles did just spend a fourth-round pick on him in the 2025 NFL Draft. Dupree, meanwhile, presents more of a veteran, run-stopping presence to the room. But it's clear that his athleticism and his production are waning.
Out of the pairing though, one thing is clear. If Dupree is ultimately the one who falls short in training camp, he won't be without options when he hits the open market.
If the Chargers choose to take the youthful route with their OLBs, Bud Dupree's veteran presence will still be valued on the open market
These two statements might seem contradictory. But let's dig a little deeper.
The Chargers carried five edge rushers last season after they eventually added Odafe Oweh through their trade with the Baltimore Ravens. Mack, Tuipulotu, and Oweh quickly formed a formidable trio. Mesidor should quickly fill Oweh's role, if not his level of immediate production.
But beyond that, neither Kennard or Dupree were given large roles. Kennard was limited to just five games by a series of injuries that began in training camp, but he played just 26% of the defensive snaps even when he was active. Dupree, meanwhile, appeared in 16 games, but he saw just 31.7% of defensive snaps after Mack's return from injury in Week 7.
If Tucker makes himself unignorable in training camp, slotting him into that mix at the expense of either Dupree or Kennard should be a serious consideration.
Dupree's lack of production could be the difference here in terms of the Chargers' roster battle. The veteran posted just two sacks and 16 combined tackles across the entirety of last season.
If he were to hit the open market, though, that might not be a disqualifying factor. After AJ Epenesa signed with the Philadelphia Eagles on Thursday, the remaining edge rusher market is almost ridiculously slim. It's currently headlined by 15-year veteran Cameron Jordan, assuming he doesn't outright retire.
Moreover, there are a number of teams that will likely be in need of additional depth off the edge when we reach training camp— most notably the Chicago Bears, Washington Commanders, and Miami Dolphins.
Dupree might not be the most disruptive pass-rusher at this point in his career, but he's certainly the type of veteran that can remain available and help elevate a young or shaky OLB room. If Dupree ultimately doesn't win out in the Chargers' roster competition, therefore, it doesn't necessarily mean the end of the 11-year veteran's NFL career.
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