The Chicago Bears are shaking things up on the defensive line this offseason, with GM Ryan Poles bringing in Neville Gallimore, Kentavius Street, and James Lynch to bolster the interior. Yet, the glaring gap in pass-rushing reinforcements hasn't gone unnoticed, especially after the Bears wrapped up last season with just 35 sacks, tying them for seventh-fewest in the league.
While the 2026 NFL draft offers potential solutions, there's a fresh opportunity in free agency that could be just what the Bears need. A.J.
Epenesa, a 27-year-old defensive end, is back on the market after a brief stint with the Cleveland Browns. The Browns backed out of a one-year, $5 million deal due to concerns from his physical, as reported by ESPN's Daniel Oyefusi.
Although the specifics of his physical remain under wraps, Epenesa’s availability should definitely catch Poles' attention.
Epenesa, who played through a foot injury and neck issue last season with the Buffalo Bills, only missed one game and has sat out just three games over the past three seasons. Despite a dip to 2.5 sacks last year, his track record of three consecutive seasons with six-plus sacks speaks volumes about his capabilities. He also racked up nine QB hits and two tackles for loss, showcasing his knack for disruption.
Pro Football Focus highlights Epenesa's 28 pressures last season, marking the third-best performance of his career. He generated pressure on 11.2% of his pass-rushing opportunities, a significant jump from his 2024 rate. This proves that while his sack numbers might not leap off the page, his impact on the field is undeniable.
The Bears would need to tread carefully, evaluating the reasons behind the Browns' decision to withdraw their offer. However, a failed physical in Cleveland doesn't automatically rule out his potential effectiveness in Chicago. What might be a deal-breaker for one team could be a manageable issue for another.
With high hopes for Austin Booker next season and expectations for Dayo Odeyingbo to step up in his second year, the Bears are looking to strengthen their pass rush. Montez Sweat remains a key player, but depth is a concern. While the draft will likely address some needs, adding a seasoned veteran like Epenesa, who has consistently contributed to playoff teams, could be a game-changer.
The Bears have a golden opportunity to capitalize on the Browns' decision and bolster their defense by bringing in Epenesa, turning a potential weakness into a formidable strength.