NFL Combine 2020: 10 NFL Draft prospects with most to prove
9. A.J. Epenesa, EDGE, Iowa
There is a ton of talk about Chase Young and him being the No. 2 overall pick in this draft but the class isn’t thin at edge rusher. One of the other top-tier prospects and likely first-round picks is Iowa’s A.J. Epenesa.
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A much different player than young, Epenesa is a physical mauler that wins with his size and strength coming off of the edge and has positional versatility to perhaps take sub-package snaps inside at the next level.
Scouting Outlook
"The size and production should force all evaluators to dial their focus in on what he’s best at rather than any perceived areas of concern. He has average instincts against the run and is a step slow to shed, but he’s strong at the point and he does his job. Epenesa won’t just out-run tackles to the edge, but he’s a skilled rusher whose diversity of attack, skilled hands and unique bull-rushing instincts could help him deliver his college sack production in the pros. He can play end in a 4-3 or 3-4 and could leap from good to great with additional work on technique and explosiveness. – Lance Zierlein, NFL.com"
What to prove at NFL Combine?
Because he wins with power and technique so often off the edge, no one should be expecting Epenesa to head to Indianapolis and test through the roof — that’s simply not part of his DNA. At the same time, however, the athletic testing portion will be critical for his draft stock and keeping as a likely first-rounder.
Epenesa, specifically, needs to perform well in the 3-cone drill at the Combine. Showing that he has solid enough bend for a player with his strength and frame will help to alleviate any concerns about whether or not he’s explosive or rangy enough to win off the edge in the NFL.