The Cleveland Browns have reportedly decided against signing free agent defensive end A.J. Epenesa, with the decision stemming from concerns that emerged following his physical examination. This development was reported by ESPN on Sunday night, marking a notable turn of events after earlier reports indicated a preliminary agreement between Epenesa and the Browns for a one-year deal worth up to $5 million.
Previously, on March 18, ESPN had reported that the Browns were poised to add the six-year veteran to their roster. Epenesa, 27, who had spent his entire professional career with the Buffalo Bills, had even visited the Browns' facility the previous Monday, as confirmed by NFL transaction records, presumably for the physical that ultimately led to the change in plans. This sudden reversal underscores the critical role of medical evaluations in professional sports contracts.
During the 2025 season, Epenesa participated in 16 regular-season games for the Bills, making two starts. His performance included 32 total tackles, 2.5 sacks, nine quarterback hits, two interceptions, and one fumble recovery. In the two playoff games he featured in, he added an additional two tackles. Epenesa was originally a second-round pick in the 2020 NFL Draft out of the University of Iowa.
Upon completing his initial four-year rookie contract, which was valued at approximately $5.87 million with a signing bonus of $1.83 million, Epenesa entered unrestricted free agency. He subsequently re-signed with the Buffalo Bills on a two-year contract worth $12 million. Throughout his career, Epenesa has accumulated impressive statistics, including 135 tackles, 24 sacks, 29 tackles for loss, 53 quarterback hits, four interceptions, five forced fumbles, three fumble recoveries, and 21 passes defended over 91 regular-season appearances, with 19 starts. He also contributed 17 tackles in 14 playoff games, starting in three of them.
The Cleveland Browns' decision to retract their offer to A.J. Epenesa highlights the rigorous medical scrutiny that professional athletes undergo during contract negotiations. While initial reports suggested a new chapter for the defensive end in Cleveland, the physical examination ultimately led to the Browns opting out, leaving Epenesa to continue his search for a new team.
