A.J. Epenesa, the talented defensive end for the Buffalo Bills, continues to make waves in the NFL as he progresses through the 2024 season. Known for his size, strength, and technique, Epenesa has become a key player on the Bills’ defense. His journey from a standout high school athlete to a college football star at Iowa and now a rising NFL player is both inspiring and remarkable.
Epenesa’s career has been marked by consistent improvement and determination, making him one of the young players to watch in the NFL. As the 2024 season unfolds, fans are eager to see how he continues to grow and contribute to the Bills’ defense.
Summary of A.J. Epenesa
| Key Life Event | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | A.J. Epenesa |
| Born | November 16, 1997 |
| High School | Edwardsville High School, Illinois |
| College | University of Iowa (2017-2019) |
| Draft Year | 2020, Second Round (54th overall) by the Buffalo Bills |
| Position | Defensive End |
| Contract | 4-year rookie contract worth $5 million (signed 2020) |
| Current Stats | 6 solo tackles, 1 sack, 9 total pressures (2024) |
| PFF Grade | 58.8 (2024 season) |
Key Takeaways
- A.J. Epenesa plays as a defensive end for the Buffalo Bills, having been drafted in the second round of the 2020 NFL Draft.
- His performance in the 2024 season includes solid stats, though there is room for improvement, as reflected by his Pro Football Focus (PFF) grade.
- Epenesa’s football journey began in high school and flourished at the University of Iowa, where he built a strong reputation.
- His rookie contract with the Buffalo Bills extends until 2024.
A.J. Epenesa’s Early Football Journey
A.J. Epenesa High School
A.J. Epenesa’s path to the NFL began at Edwardsville High School in Edwardsville, Illinois. There, he was not only a football star but also excelled in track and field. His athleticism and size made him a formidable presence on the football field, and his success in high school earned him recognition as one of the top defensive prospects in the country. His performance at Edwardsville helped secure his future at the University of Iowa, a top football program.
A.J. Epenesa Iowa
Epenesa went on to play college football at the University of Iowa from 2017 to 2019. At Iowa, he made a name for himself as a dominant defensive end, known for his ability to get to the quarterback and disrupt opposing offenses. He recorded impressive stats, including multiple sacks and tackles for loss, solidifying his status as a top NFL prospect. His performance at Iowa caught the attention of scouts and played a significant role in his draft position.
The NFL Draft and Joining the Buffalo Bills
A.J. Epenesa Draft
In the 2020 NFL Draft, Epenesa was selected by the Buffalo Bills in the second round, 54th overall. His draft position reflected the high expectations surrounding his potential to impact the NFL. The Bills saw in Epenesa a player who could develop into a key part of their defensive line, given his size, technique, and versatility.
A.J. Epenesa’s 2024 Season Performance
A.J. Epenesa Stats
As of the 2024 season, A.J. Epenesa’s stats show his active participation in the Bills’ defense. He has recorded:
- Solo Tackles: 6 (Tied 51st among edge defenders)
- Assists: 1 (Tied 72nd)
- Sacks: 1 (Tied 57th)
- Total Pressures: 9 (Ranked 55th)
While these numbers demonstrate Epenesa’s ability to contribute on the field, his overall Pro Football Focus (PFF) grade of 58.8 indicates there are areas where he can continue to grow and improve his game. His rank of 99th out of 169 edge defenders suggests that while he has made an impact, there is room for further development as he gains more experience.
A.J. Epenesa PFF
Pro Football Focus (PFF) evaluates NFL players based on their performance throughout the season, and Epenesa’s grade of 58.8 reflects a solid but still developing performance. His stats show his ability to pressure quarterbacks, but his ranking among other edge defenders suggests he can still elevate his consistency on the field.
A.J. Epenesa’s Contract with the Buffalo Bills
A.J. Epenesa Contract
After being drafted by the Buffalo Bills in 2020, Epenesa signed a four-year rookie contract worth approximately $5 million, which included a $1.5 million signing bonus. This contract, which extends through the 2024 season, has allowed the Bills to develop Epenesa within their defensive system. As he nears the end of his rookie deal, his continued growth will be critical in determining his future contract negotiations and long-term role in the NFL.
FAQ
When was A.J. Epenesa born?
A.J. Epenesa was born on November 16, 1997.
What position does A.J. Epenesa play?
A.J. Epenesa plays as a defensive end for the Buffalo Bills.
Where did A.J. Epenesa go to college?
A.J. Epenesa played college football at the University of Iowa from 2017 to 2019.
What are A.J. Epenesa’s 2024 season stats?
As of 2024, A.J. Epenesa has recorded 6 solo tackles, 1 assist, 1 sack, and 9 total pressures.
What is A.J. Epenesa’s PFF grade for the 2024 season?
A.J. Epenesa’s PFF grade for the 2024 season is 58.8, ranking him 99th among 169 edge defenders.
What is A.J. Epenesa’s current contract?
A.J. Epenesa is under a four-year rookie contract worth approximately $5 million, signed after he was drafted by the Buffalo Bills in 2020.
How did A.J. Epenesa perform in college?
At the University of Iowa, A.J. Epenesa was known for his ability to sack quarterbacks and stop the run, making him one of the top defensive end prospects in the 2020 NFL Draft.