Former Hawkeye AJ Epenesa Is On the Move

A former Iowa Hawkeye defensive star has a new home in the National Football League.

AJ Epenesa Leaves the Buffalo Bills

Former Iowa Hawkeye defensive end AJ Epenesa is leaving the only NFL home he's ever known. ESPN reports that Epenesa is signing a one-year deal with the Cleveland Browns. The deal could be worth up to $5 million. The 27 year old defensive end has played his entire NFL career with Buffalo after being a second round draft pick out of Iowa in 2020.

A Sack Master at Iowa and In Buffalo

Hawkeye Sports reports that Epenesa was a sack master while in Iowa City. He recorded 10.5 sacks his junior year, and 11.5 his senior year. He finished his Iowa career with 26.5 total sacks. After arriving in Buffalo, ESPN reports that Epenesa recorded 19 sacks during his first three years with the Bills. However, he had just 2.5 sacks in 16 games with Buffalo in 2025.

What is Cleveland Getting in Epenesa?

The Browns don't need Epenesa to be a star. They're adding the former Hawkeye for depth on their defensive line. And while his sack numbers might be down, one thing AJ still does great is batting down passes at the line of scrimage. ESPN reports that Epenesa has 14 career batted passes, and 4 interceptions, including 2 INTs last season!

Best of luck to AJ Epenesa in Cleveland! The Dawg Pound should love him!