What to Expect from the Buffalo Bills 2020 Rookie Class

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A.J. Epenesa, Iowa Hawkeyes. (Photo by Sean M. Haffey/Getty Images) /

2nd Round: Pick 54- DE AJ Epenesa

Most NFL analysts agree that the Bills got a first-round talent in the second round, and most actually had Epenesa going in the late first round, so the Bills getting him at 54 is a great value pick.

There still doesn’t seem to be a reason as to why Epenesa fell so far in the draft, but one thing that’s certain is the chip on Epenesa’s shoulder going into the season.

Epenesa is a freak athlete who consistently put up impressive stats during his career at Iowa. Epenesa finished his three-year career at Iowa with 101 tackles, 36.5 tackles for loss, and 26.5 sacks.

The production has always been there for Epenesa and he hopes that will translate to the NFL. He will join a crowded rotation on the defensive line for the Bills in the 2020 season.

The Bills have Jerry Hughes, Ed Oliver, Harrison Phillips, Star Lotulelei, Mario Addison, Vernon Butler, Quinton Jefferson, Trent Murphy, Darryl Johnson, and Mike Love all competing for spots on the team.

The Bills could make it easier for Epenesa to get reps if they cut Trent Murphy which would save them about $8 million on the cap. I expect the starting defensive line to be Hughes, Oliver, Lotulelei, and Addison, but coach McDermott likes to rotate defensive linemen to keep everyone fresh.

I expect Epenesa to be in the rotation Week one, and I predict Epenesa will be a key player on the defensive line. I wouldn’t be surprised if he gets some Defensive Rookie of the Year votes this upcoming season either.

Round 7: Pick 239- CB Dane Jackson

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Jackson is another high-value pick for Buffalo, especially in the seventh round. He is a competitive cornerback who will not be intimated by the transition to the NFL. Jackson had an impressive college career and used his great footwork to only allow a 42% completion rate.

Jackson will come into an already stacked defensive back room. The Bills have arguably the best cornerback in football in Tre’Davious White. They also have Josh Norman, EJ Gaines, Levi Wallace, Taron Johnson, and Siran Neal.

I expect Jackson to learn a lot from his fellow defensive backs, and for Jackson to make the team as a depth cornerback for the Bills defense.

Overall:

Before the draft, the Bills already had a team that could contend for a Super Bowl run this year. In the Draft, Brandon Beane wanted to fill in some holes and try to make their team even stronger.

I believe it’s clear Beane focused on certain positions to try and strengthen, and overall had a very effective draft on paper.

Next. Buffalo Bills take A.J. Epenesa with 2nd round pick – reaction. dark

Time will tell if these rookies can ultimately help Buffalo achieve its goal in finally bringing a Super Bowl to western New York.

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