Chicago Bears: Best available players after day one

5. DE A.J. Epenesa, Iowa

For many, A.J. Epenesa was going to be the second or third edge rusher off the board. However, he’s now waiting to hear his name called. While most wouldn’t want the Bears to select an edge rusher with Khalil Mack and Robert Quinn already on the roster, the team needs to upgrade behind them.

Let’s say general manager Ryan Pace is operating on a “best player available” philosophy. Then Epenesa could be the guy that he drafts after all. Epenesa isn’t overly explosive but he does have a variety of pass rushing moves and brings a lot of power to the position.

While in college, he had excellent production as well, he had 36 tackles for loss and 26.5 sacks. The biggest area for a defense where he can have an impact in would be the running game but he has shown the ability to rush the passer as well.

It’s very likely that Epenesa is available between picks 43 and 50. Some would consider adding an edge rusher that high as a luxury pick but you can never have too many pass rushers who are willing to get after the quarterback.