Iowa legacy recruit, brother of Bills second-rounder AJ Epenesa, sees massive rise in 2025 recruiting rankings

The Epenesa brothers may become the next set of impact pass-rushers in the NFL over the next few years. Buffalo Bills defensive end AJ Epenesa has produced 13 sacks over his last two seasons, and now his brother is on the verge of becoming a top-notch recruit in the 2025 class. Iose Epenesa is a bonafide 5-star prospect.

Iose Epenesa Recruiting Profile Explodes

The 6-foot-4, 230-pound edge defender was one of the biggest risers in 247Sports' latest top-50 recruit update. He's risen from a mid-50s recruit in February to 35th in April. Now, he's broken into the top 15 overall.

Right before the 2024 NFL Draft, Epenesa announced his top 10 list as his decision for signing day slowly nears. The final list, in no specific order, comprises the following schools: Illinois, Iowa, Missouri, Oregon, Kentucky, Utah, Michigan, Penn State, Miami, and Texas. Of course, his brother AJ dominated at Iowa, so the crystal ball is strongly forecasting the lineage to continue with the Hawkeyes.

During his junior year, Epenesa emerged as the leader of his high school defense, recording seven sacks. This achievement brought his career total to 15 sacks, equaling the program record set by his brother, AJ Epenesa. Additionally, he matched senior linebacker Dalton Brown by recording 10 tackles for loss this season. Epenesa also contributed with 46 tackles and three forced fumbles.

How is Iose Epenesa Related to AJ Epenesa?

AJ Epenesa is Iose's older brother. AJ will turn 26 on September 15, whereas Iose is entering his senior season in high school this fall. By the time Iose is eligible for the NFL, AJ will be 29 and going on 30. There's a chance we could see the brothers play together for the first time in their lives.

Fellow NFL family duos who have been unable to play together in the NFL thus far include Joey and Nick Bosa and Chandler and Arthur Jones. Neither had the age gap we see with the Epenesas.

Where Will Iose Epenesa Commit?

Iowa defensive line coach Kelvin Bell has the Hawkeyes in prime position to land Epenesa. The younger brother of AJ would be the highest-rated recruit Bell has landed with his alma mater, outranking Logan Jones and Justice Sullivan. It's safe to say expectations are higher for Iose.

Iose also has experience playing tight end, but as he gains mass, he's expected to play defensive end in college. His movement ability and explosiveness is already reminiscent of what future early-round NFL talents have in high school.