4 affordable free-agent targets for Saints this offseason

2. DE A.J. Epenesa

Something else the Saints need is help on the defensive line. In 2023, New Orleans recorded just 34 sacks a team, ranking them 28th in the NFL. That’s why draft analyst think New Orleans will select an edge defender at No. 14 if the team doesn’t select an offensive tackle. Be it draft or free agency, New Orleans needs to acquire an edge defender this offseason.

Buffalo Bills defensive end A.J. Epenesa is a great, affordable option for the Saints. Epenesa has been with the Bills since being drafted by them in the second round of the 2020 NFL Draft. In his four seasons, he hasn’t been a full-time starter, but he has been a productive pass rusher.

This past season, in 15 games, he recorded 20 tackles, seven for a loss, 6.5 sacks, and two interceptions. The season prior to that, 2022, Epenesa also had 6.5 sacks and seven tackles for a loss in 15 total games. That level of consistent production is certainly needed in New Orleans.

Spotrac projects Epenesa’s market value at a two-year contract worth $11.297. That equates to $5.6 million annually. That’s a contract the Saints can definitely afford.