AJ Epenesa Browns Deal Collapses After Medical Concerns Halt Signing

The Cleveland Browns have decided not to proceed with the signing of defensive end AJ Epenesa after concerns emerged during his physical, ending what had appeared to be a finalized deal. The move leaves the veteran pass rusher once again navigating free agency during the NFL offseason.

Epenesa had been expected to join Cleveland on a one-year contract reportedly worth up to $5 million. He was even present at the team’s facility last week, signaling that the agreement was close to completion before the situation changed.

However, the Browns ultimately chose to halt the signing process after reviewing his medical results. The decision reflects the team’s caution as it evaluates roster additions ahead of the upcoming season.

With the deal now voided, Epenesa returns to the open market, while Cleveland is forced to reassess its defensive plans moving forward.

1. Deal Falls Apart After Physical

The breakdown of the agreement was confirmed after reports indicated the Browns were not fully comfortable finalizing the contract following Epenesa’s physical examination. The issue was not publicly detailed, but it was significant enough for the team to reverse course. According to reporting from ESPN’s Daniel Oyefusi, Cleveland opted out of the deal despite earlier expectations that it would be completed. The situation underscores how medical evaluations can alter roster decisions even late in negotiations. Epenesa had reportedly agreed to terms with the Browns on March 18, with both sides preparing for him to join the defensive rotation. His presence at the team facility suggested the signing was imminent before complications arose. Instead, the contract was never officially finalized, leaving both player and team to move in different directions.

2. Epenesa’s NFL Profile and Production

Epenesa, a former second-round pick of the Buffalo Bills in the 2020 NFL Draft, has spent his entire professional career with Buffalo prior to the failed Cleveland agreement. He developed into a rotational edge rusher known for his strength and versatility. During the 2025 season, Epenesa appeared in 15 games with two starts. He recorded 32 total tackles, nine quarterback hits, four passes defended, two tackles for loss, and 2.5 sacks, providing steady if unspectacular production. His role in Buffalo often involved situational pass-rushing duties, where he contributed depth rather than headline-grabbing statistics. Teams have valued his experience and ability to fit into multiple defensive looks. Despite the setback with Cleveland, his resume suggests he remains a viable option for teams seeking rotational help on the edge.

3. Browns Reassess Defensive Plans

For Cleveland, the decision leaves a gap in its defensive line plans as the team continues to adjust its roster for the upcoming season. Depth at defensive end was already an area of focus entering the offseason. The Browns had been looking to reinforce their pass rush following the departure of defensive end Cameron Thomas, making Epenesa’s potential arrival a timely addition before the deal fell through. Now, the front office must explore alternative free-agent options or internal candidates to fill the role originally projected for him. The timing adds pressure as roster construction continues across the league. For Epenesa, the setback means a return to free agency, where his next opportunity will likely depend on both health evaluations and team needs across the NFL.