Post-free agency full NFL two-round mock: Redskins trade down

A.J. Epenesa’s tape never quite matched up to the hype he received throughout the draft community in the lead-up to the 2019 season, and his NFL Combine performance only reinforced doubts about his pro potential. Epenesa logged a 5.04 40-yard dash time and a mere 32.5-inch vertical, displaying middling athleticism for his 6-foot-5, 275-pound frame.

Epenesa’s combine performance has some wondering if he’ll slip out of Round 1, but more likely is that teams will modify their perception of him, in order to maximize his profile. Yes, Epenesa doesn’t have the ideal athleticism of an edge rusher on a down-to-down basis, but were he to be moved to the interior at the next level, or moved across the line situationally, his best traits could shine through.

With Epenesa’s versatility as a long and powerful player in mind, the Seattle Seahawks make sense as a potential fit, as they value versatility in their defensive linemen. They may find themselves disappointed if they count on Epenesa to fulfill their need on the edge alone, but as a versatile chess piece on the line, Epenesa has some appeal as a high-floor prospect.