The Chicago Bears are exploring options to bolster their defensive end position, having recently worked out A.J. Epenesa, a veteran defensive end formerly with the Buffalo Bills. This development was reported by the Chicago Tribune, highlighting the Bears’ ongoing efforts to enhance their defensive capabilities.

Epenesa’s Career and Recent Developments

A.J. Epenesa, 27, became a free agent after his contract with the Cleveland Browns fell through in March due to a failed physical. Prior to this, Epenesa had agreed to a one-year deal with the Browns worth up to $5 million. Despite this setback, Epenesa’s career statistics remain impressive. During the 2025 season, he played in 16 regular season games for the Bills, starting in two, and recorded 32 tackles, 2.5 sacks, nine quarterback hits, two interceptions, and one fumble recovery. In the playoffs, he added two tackles over two games.

Drafted by the Buffalo Bills in the second round of the 2020 NFL Draft out of Iowa, Epenesa has accumulated a total of 135 tackles, 24 sacks, 29 tackles for loss, 53 quarterback hits, four interceptions, five forced fumbles, three fumble recoveries, and 21 passes defensed over 91 regular season games, 19 of which he started. His playoff performance includes 17 tackles across 14 games, with three starts.

Chicago Bears’ Defensive Lineup

The Bears are considering Epenesa as they evaluate their current roster of defensive ends, which includes returning players Montez Sweat, Austin Booker, Dayo Odeyingbo, Daniel Hardy, and Shemar Turner. With the potential addition of Epenesa, the Bears aim to strengthen their defensive line and enhance their performance in the upcoming season.

Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.