The Cleveland Browns have been the talk of the town leading up to the draft, with much of the focus on their offensive lineup. Questions swirl around their quarterback situation, the revamped offensive line, and the search for a standout wide receiver. However, there's a defensive twist that has suddenly climbed up GM Andrew Berry’s to-do list.
In a surprising development, the Browns have decided not to sign Buffalo Bills edge rusher A.J. Epenesa. This comes after a reported one-year deal worth up to $5 million fell through due to concerns raised during a physical, as reported by ESPN's Daniel Oyefusi.
The Browns seemed poised to secure a solid addition in Epenesa, a former second-round pick. While he hasn't been a star, his presence would have added valuable veteran depth behind Myles Garrett and Alex Wright. His consistent participation over six seasons, including 16 games for the Bills in 2025, makes this health-related snag unexpected.
This twist could open the door for the Bills to reconsider Epenesa, addressing their own needs at edge rusher. With Epenesa back on the free agent market, Buffalo might see an opportunity to bolster their lineup with familiar talent.
For the Browns, the need for an edge rusher before the 2026 NFL Draft becomes more pressing. Isaiah McGuire, a 2023 fourth-round pick, is currently the next in line, but his role diminished toward the end of last season. Julian Okwara’s return adds some depth, but his recent stint on the practice squad and injured reserve raises questions about his roster spot.
Fortunately, this year’s draft is rich with edge rushers, offering the Browns a chance to address this gap. With four picks in the top 70 and nine overall, they have room to maneuver. While it’s unlikely they’ll target an edge rusher in the early rounds, this position will certainly be a focal point on Day 3, alongside other defensive needs like cornerback, safety, and linebacker.
The Browns’ draft strategy just got more interesting, and how they navigate these challenges will be crucial for their defensive lineup moving forward.