Buffalo Bills Could Explore Trade Options for A.J. Epenesa
With major additions to their pass rush this offseason, the Buffalo Bills may be considering another significant move involving defensive end A.J. Epenesa. After signing Greg Rousseau to a long-term extension and bringing in former All-Pro Joey Bosa, the team could look to move Epenesa ahead of the NFL Draft.
Epenesa is entering the final year of a two-year, $12 million contract extension. While productive—recording 6.0 sacks and 39 tackles last season—the team has not offered him a long-term deal. FOX Sports’ Ralph Vacchiano noted this as a possible indicator that Buffalo may be open to trading him, especially as they prepare for the future of the position.
In 2023, Epenesa tallied 6.5 sacks and two interceptions, solidifying his role in the Bills’ defense. Despite this, the team’s recent investments in Rousseau and Bosa suggest a shift in their long-term strategy.
Buffalo has a history of aggressive draft moves, having traded up in the first round in two of the last three years. General Manager Brandon Beane has also frequently dealt players nearing the end of their contracts. Last season, the Bills traded wide receiver Stefon Diggs to the Houston Texans in a major offseason move.
Looking ahead, analysts believe the Bills may target a pass rusher early in the draft. One potential pick is Boston College’s Donovan Ezeiruaku, a standout with 30 career college sacks, including 16.5 in 2024. The Athletic’s Joe Buscaglia suggested Buffalo could trade up from No. 30 to No. 26 to secure him, especially with the Detroit Lions (No. 28) also eyeing edge help.
Ezeiruaku fits the Bills’ preferred mold—length, explosiveness, and production—and could learn behind veterans before stepping into a starting role. His rookie contract would align with Rousseau’s extension through 2029, providing long-term stability at the position.
As draft day approaches, Epenesa’s status remains a storyline to watch, with the Bills weighing roster depth, financial strategy, and future needs on the edge.
