Bills 'Most Important' Looming Contract Extension: DE A.J. Epenesa?

With the 2023 season fast approaching, Bleacher Report took a look at Buffalo's most important looming contract extension.

The Buffalo Bills are certainly not lacking for talent on the defensive side of the ball. From safety Jordan Poyer to linebacker Matt Milano, the Bills are primed to once again have one of the best defenses in the NFL. 

However, the position group with the most depth is arguably the defensive line. Ed Oliver, Von Miller and Greg Rousseau headline the position, but they are from the just the tip of the iceberg. 

Providing key depth in the trenches is defensive end A.J. Epenesa, who has shown flashes in his first three seasons. With Epenesa seemingly on the verge of breaking into NFL stardom, Bleacher Report named him Buffalo's most important contract extension ahead of the season.

"While the Bills only have $5 million in cap space, working out a new deal with Epenesa should be doable. He hasn't earned a big-money contract just yet and will carry a modest cap hit of $1.9 million this season," Bleacher Report writes.

"Buffalo also has edge-rushers Leonard Floyd and Shaq Lawson slated to hit the market next offseason. Extending Epenesa on a team-friendly deal would help give the Bills some solidified depth on the edge ahead of 2024."

After a slow start to his career, recording just 28 total tackles with 2.5 sacks in his first two seasons, he put together a strong 2022 season. He finished his third year with a career-high 16 tackles and 6.5 sacks. 

While Epenesa has not quite had a true "breakout" season quite yet, Bleacher Report points out it would be wise to lock him in before he does so - otherwise, another strong showing in 2023 could make even an even pricier contract to sign. 

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You can find Connor Zimmerlee on Twitter @Connorjz98

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