5 things to know about new Eagles edge rusher A.J. Epenesa

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The Philadelphia Eagles have spent much of the offseason searching for ways to keep one of the NFL’s most feared defenses among the league’s elite units. Their latest move adds another experienced pass rusher to a group that already boasts plenty of talent off the edge. While much of the conversation surrounding Philadelphia has focused on roster changes elsewhere, the addition of A.J. Epenesa quietly gives the Eagles another intriguing defender who can contribute to an already formidable pass rush.

The former Buffalo Bills draft pick arrives in Philadelphia with a strong football background. He also brings a resume that includes accomplishments at every level of the game.

A former All-American who terrorized Big Ten offenses

This may be familiar territory for college football fans, but Epenesa’s accomplishments at the NCAA level remain impressive. During his three seasons with the Iowa Hawkeyes, he developed into one of the nation’s premier defensive linemen.

His collegiate honors include Second-Team All-American recognition in 2019, two First-Team All-Big Ten selections in 2018 and 2019, and a spot on the Big Ten All-Freshman Team in 2017. By the time his Iowa career ended, opposing offenses were well aware of the challenges he posed each week.

A.J. Epenesa was also a state champion in track and field

Football was not Epenesa’s only athletic pursuit at Edwardsville High School in Illinois. He excelled in track and field as well, winning state championships in the discus throw during both his junior and senior seasons.

His athletic versatility helped him earn All-American honors in football and track. Following his senior season, he participated in both the Army All-American Bowl and the Polynesian Bowl, further cementing his status as one of the country’s top recruits.

Iowa Hawkeyes football runs in the family

Epenesa’s connection to Iowa began long before he arrived on campus. His father, Eppy, walked on to the Hawkeyes football program after moving from American Samoa.

That family connection helped shape A.J.’s admiration for the program. When he committed to Iowa on January 17, 2016, he became the highest-rated recruit ever to sign with a Kirk Ferentz-coached Hawkeyes team.

His first college sack came against Josh Allen

One of the more interesting footnotes from Epenesa’s college career came during an Iowa matchup with the Wyoming Cowboys. His first collegiate sack came against quarterback Josh Allen, who would eventually become the No. 7 overall selection in the 2018 NFL Draft.

Years later, football brought them together again as Bills teammates. Epenesa finished his Iowa career with 26.5 sacks, tying him for fourth place on the program’s all-time sacks list.

He was coached by the father of a WNBA star

Epenesa attended Edwardsville High School alongside WNBA standout Kate Martin. Her father, Matt Martin, served as Epenesa’s football and track coach during his prep career.

His high school football journey also included sharing the field with future NFL defensive back Craig James, adding yet another professional football connection to a story that has now brought him to Philadelphia.

Whether he becomes a major contributor or a valuable rotational piece, Epenesa arrives with a background full of achievements. The Eagles believe he can add another layer to an already dangerous pass rush, and his journey to Philadelphia makes him one of the more interesting additions to watch this season.

This article originally appeared on Eagles Wire: 5 things to know about new Eagles edge rusher A.J. Epenesa

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