The Buffalo Bills could still look to add more help to their pass rush.
Buffalo selected Clemson Tigers pass rusher T.J. Parker in the second round of the 2026 NFL Draft, which was its first pick after trading out of the first round. Although the Bills selected Parker, analyst Brandon Ray of FanSided predicts the team will re-sign AJ Epenesa.
“While the Bills brought in a little bit of edge rusher help, they could still use another body or two. A.J. Epenesa was set to sign with the Cleveland Browns, but then the Browns decided not to based on how they felt about his physical. Now that he is still available, Buffalo should strongly consider bringing him back for another season to add some quality depth for Jim Leonhard,” Ray wrote.
Bringing back Epenesa does make some sense to add more depth to the position, and it would be a low-risk move. Given that he’s still unsigned, the contract wouldn’t be too expensive, and could also not have much guaranteed money, making Epenesa earn a roster spot in training camp.
The Bills selected Epenesa in the second round of the 2020 NFL Draft. His best years were in 2022 and 2023, when he had 6.5 sacks in both years. However, last season he struggled as he recorded just 2.5 sacks.
Epenesa Had Failed Deal With Browns
Epenesa is still a free agent after his failed deal with the Cleveland Browns.
The pass rusher agreed to a one-year deal worth up to $5 million with the Browns on March 18. However, on March 29, it was revealed that the deal fell through after Cleveland was uncomfortable finalizing the deal after the veteran defensive end had his physical.
Due to the failed physical, Epenesa is still a free agent and could bring his contract value down. If he continues to be available, perhaps the Bills will take a flier on bringing him back to add more pass rush depth.
However, even if Epenesa does re-sign with the Bills, it likely won’t guarantee him a spot on the 53-man roster.
Bills Draft Parker to Add Pass Rush Help
Buffalo had a clear need to add pass-rush help, and the team addressed it in the NFL Draft.
With the team’s first pick of the 2026 NFL Draft, Buffalo selected T.J. Parker out of Clemson, which Beane was eager about, as he felt like the Bills had a clear pass-rush need.
“Yesterday was huge how it worked out for us,” Beane said. “We knew when we left here last night, looking at the board, that we’re going to be able to get a pass rusher.”
Parker, meanwhile, said he plans to make a difference on the defense and is eager to play in Buffalo.
“Very physical player who loves using hands, doesn’t shy away from contact in the run or the pass game. Very powerful with my long arms and my speed, the power,” Parker said.
“(I’m) one guy who could change up and use a little speed, a guy who’s going to try to play with attitude, run to the ball, get there as fast as possible and put pain on somebody. (I’m) playing fast, physical football … and I’m trying to bring the nasty to the defense.”
Parker recorded just 5 sacks last season after 11.5 sacks the year prior.
Bills Predicted to Sign Former 6.5-Sack Pass Rusher Despite Drafting T.J. Parker