To be fair, health could play a big factor in A.J. Epenesa’s potential 2026 value, and we don’t know just how healthy the 27-year-old edge-defender is. We do know that the Cleveland Browns planned to sign him early in free agency but opted against it following a physical.
Cleveland didn’t disclose the results of Epenesa’s physical, but it must be noted that he suffered pectoral, foot, and neck injuries in 2025, along with a concussion.
If healthy, though, Epenesa projects as a very good backup or rotational defender. The 2020 second-round pick out of Iowa has spent six seasons with the Buffalo Bills and has shown plenty of promise as a part-time player.
In 91 regular-season games with 19 starts, Epenesa has compiled 135 tackles, 24 sacks, 29 tackles for loss, 53 quarterback hits, and 77 quarterback pressures.
Given his age, Epenesa still has the potential to develop into a serviceable starter, and, at worst, he should be a quality rotational edge this season—again, if healthy. He should interest virtually every team looking to boost its edge rotation.
Logical Landing Spots: Philadelphia Eagles, Seattle Seahawks