National Signing Day may be two months away, but Kentucky has already picked up a very big -- and experienced -- commitment for the 2014 season.
Defensive end Alvin Dupree announced Friday that, after considering an early jump to the NFL, he has decided to return to the Wildcats for another season. Suffice to say, Mark Stoops was pleased with the development.
“We are very excited that Bud has decided to return,” the head coach said in a statement. “Obviously this is big for our team as we are counting on his leadership in the 2014 season. In regard to his future, I believe that Bud will benefit greatly with another year of development on the field, in the weight room and in his academics.”
Dupree led the Wildcats in sacks with six and tackles for loss with 9.5 in 2013. He was named second-team All-SEC by the Associated Press following a season in which he led all conference in tackles with 61.
“I wanted to help Coach Stoops with the program,” Dupree said of his reasons to stay. “Coming back another year can help me be a higher draft pick and I have a goal of graduating in December (2014).”