Eagles Asking A.J. Epenesa to Play New Role Defensively in Vic Fangio's System

The Philadelphia Eagles are asking A.J. Epenesa to play a new role defensively in Vic Fangio's system. 

Epenesa has to learn a new defense quickly since the regular season is almost here. 

"It's going to take a little bit of time. The big thing is my coverage aspect," Epenesa said. "I haven't been asked to do that much in my career. Slowly but surely, I'm gaining confidence in that world. The more reps I get, the more times I see it, I won't be so unfamiliar."

Epenesa reached free agency this offseason after spending the first six years of his NFL career with the Buffalo Bills. He and the Cleveland Browns agreed to a one-year deal worth up to $5 million in March, but Cleveland was uncomfortable finalizing the contract after a subsequent physical.

Epenesa remained a free agent until signing a one-year deal with the Eagles in June.

"I don't necessarily want to go back and talk on that," Epenesa said. "I'll just leave that in the past and just be happy that I'm not a Brown and that I'm an Eagle. ... Very healthy, feeling good, and happy to be here."

Epenesa played in 16 games for the Bills last season. He put up 2.5 sacks, 17 solo tackles, two tackles for loss and nine QB hits. The 27-year-old enters this season with 24 sacks, 81 solo tackles, 29 tackles for loss, 53 QB hits and four interceptions.  

The Eagles' defense finished fifth in the NFL in scoring defense last season, giving up only 19.1 points per game. Philadelphia's 56.8% completion percentage allowed led the league, while its 75.4 passer rating ranked second.

Philadelphia won the NFC East last season. However, Jalen Hurts and Co. lost to the San Francisco 49ers at home in the wild-card round of the playoffs. 

The Eagles begin this season at home against the Washington Commanders.