A.J. Epenesa, EDGE, Iowa

After a lack luster performance at the scouting combine, Iowa’s A.J. Epenesa will almost certainly be available late in the first round.

This Iowa product had great production over the past two seasons for the Hawkeyes, racking up 30.5 tackles for loss, 22 sacks, eight forced fumbles and seven pass deflections. After finishing last season with just 37 total sacks as a team, the number one need for the Ravens this offseason was to upgrade their pass rush situation.

Tagging Matthew Judon will help for at least next season, as he led the team with 9.5 sacks, but the team still needs some long-term assurance at the position. The addition of Derek Wolfe should also help the situation next season, but he only signed a one-year deal with Baltimore.

Drafting someone like Epenesa will give the team some long-term stability at their pass rushing positions. His ability to play multiple techniques and positions along the defensive line should also appeal to Baltimore.

If he’s available once the team is on the clock, Baltimore would be wise to explore this defensive playmaker as a serious option.