Deal Collapses Following Medical Evaluation
The Cleveland Browns have called off their free-agency agreement with defensive end A.J. Epenesa. According to reporting from ESPN, the team decided to void the contract after being dissatisfied with the findings from Epenesa's mandatory physical examination.
While the specific medical issues that led to the failed physical were not publicly disclosed, this development marks another instance this offseason where a contract has been terminated due to health-related concerns during the evaluation process.
Background on Epenesa's Career
Epenesa, who has completed six seasons in the NFL, has spent his entire professional career with the Buffalo Bills. Following the conclusion of a two-year, $12 million contract last season, he entered the free-agent market. On March 18, he had reportedly reached an agreement with Cleveland on a one-year contract valued at up to $5 million, subject to the standard physical.
Throughout his time in the league, Epenesa has demonstrated durability, participating in at least 14 games in every one of his six seasons and starting 19 of his 91 total appearances. He has recorded 24 career sacks, including a consistent production of six or more sacks in each season from 2022 to 2024. The Browns had intended for him to bolster their pass-rush rotation alongside Myles Garrett; however, the team must now explore alternative options as the free-agency window progresses.
GM Andrew Berry Reaffirms Commitment to Myles Garrett
While the acquisition of Epenesa did not materialize, the Browns received positive news regarding their defensive anchor. General Manager Andrew Berry dismissed recent rumors suggesting the team might trade Myles Garrett.
Speculation arose after the team restructured Garrett's contract last week, leading some to wonder if the move was a precursor to a potential trade. Berry quickly addressed these rumors during the NFL owners' meetings on Sunday, stating:
«Myles is a career Brown. He’s one of the faces of our organization. I think we’ve been very clear both past and present about our goals. I understand all the questions. I’ll be honest, I don’t really want to waste a ton more breath on the topic.»