The Buffalo Bills are entering the 2025 NFL season as one of the league’s top Super Bowl contenders, but a bold suggestion from Bleacher Report’s Gary Davenport could shake up their roster. With the team just one win shy of the Super Bowl last season, the Bills are under pressure to make strategic moves to finally get over the hump. One such move? Trading pass rusher A.J. Epenesa, a key defensive piece whose departure could spark controversy but also open new opportunities for Buffalo.
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Why Trade A.J. Epenesa?
A.J. Epenesa, a second-round pick in 2020, has been a solid contributor to the Bills’ defensive line. Over five seasons, he’s racked up 103 tackles, 21.5 sacks, five forced fumbles, two interceptions, and 17 passes defended in 75 games. While these numbers are respectable, Davenport argues that Epenesa’s performance has been “decent” but not “great.” He’s never surpassed seven sacks in a season and has only topped 20 tackles once. As a rotational edge rusher, his impact is undeniable, but with his contract nearing its end in 2025, the Bills face a critical decision.
“There’s always demand for edge-rushers in the NFL—even rotational options like Epenesa,” Davenport wrote. “And with him unlikely to be with the team past the 2025 season, now is the time to see what they can get for him.” Trading Epenesa could net the Bills valuable draft capital or a player who better fits their championship aspirations.
The Case for Trading Now
Maximizing Value Before Free Agency
Epenesa’s contract situation makes him a prime trade candidate. If the Bills don’t plan to re-sign him, trading him now ensures they get something in return rather than losing him for nothing in free agency. Edge rushers are highly sought after, and even a rotational player like Epenesa could fetch a mid-round draft pick or a complementary piece for Buffalo’s roster.
Bolstering Other Areas
The Bills have already made moves this offseason, adding Joey Bosa and Joshua Palmer to the roster. However, their secondary remains a concern, with Rasul Douglas still a free agent and questions surrounding the cornerback and safety positions. Trading Epenesa could allow Buffalo to acquire a playmaker like Jalen Ramsey, who has been floated as a potential trade target. Ramsey’s versatility could transform the Bills’ defense into a true championship unit.
Championship Window Closing
With Josh Allen coming off an NFL MVP season and the Bills boasting one of the league’s most complete rosters, the time to act is now. Trading Epenesa, while risky, could be the kind of aggressive move that pushes Buffalo past rivals like the Kansas City Chiefs. Keeping a player who may not be part of the long-term plan could hinder their ability to make a splash before the 2025 season kicks off.
The Risks of Trading Epenesa
While the idea of trading Epenesa is intriguing, it’s not without risks. The Bills’ pass-rushing depth is already stretched, and losing Epenesa could weaken their ability to pressure quarterbacks like Patrick Mahomes in crucial games. Joey Bosa’s injury history adds another layer of uncertainty, as the team would need a reliable backup plan to replace Epenesa’s production. Critics argue that trading a proven contributor for unproven assets could backfire in Buffalo’s pursuit of a championship.
Why Buffalo Should Act
Despite the risks, the Bills should seriously consider trading Epenesa. Their championship window is wide open, and General Manager Brandon Beane has a history of making bold moves to keep the roster competitive. With Josh Allen leading the charge and new additions like Bosa and Palmer, Buffalo is poised for a deep playoff run. Trading Epenesa could provide the final piece of the puzzle—whether it’s a shutdown corner, a dynamic offensive weapon, or draft picks to build for the future.
The clock is ticking for the Bills to make a statement. Trading A.J. Epenesa might be the shocking move that sends a message to the NFL: Buffalo is all-in for 2025. Will they pull the trigger? Only time will tell, but the potential rewards could make it worth the gamble.