The Cleveland Browns are making strategic moves in free agency, adding veteran pass rusher A.J. Epenesa from the Buffalo Bills. General Manager Andrew Berry hinted at a proactive offseason, and this acquisition aligns with that vision.
Epenesa joins the Browns on a one-year, $5 million deal, bringing his experience from six seasons in Buffalo. Here's what Browns fans should know about their new defensive asset:
Ball Hawk Potential
Epenesa isn't your typical defensive end. With four career interceptions and a knack for finding the end zone, he's shown versatility. His standout moment came in 2023 with a pick-six, part of his best season where he also notched two interceptions, eight pass breakups, and a career-high 6.5 sacks.
Role as a Rotational Edge Rusher
Drafted in the second round, Epenesa hasn't been a full-time starter but has proven valuable in rotation. He played in 91 games with 19 starts, including a career-high 13 starts in 2024. The Browns see him as a reliable rotational player who can step up when needed.
Peak Performance Years
Epenesa's prime years were 2022 to 2024, with 19 sacks, 22 tackles for loss, and 31 quarterback hurries. After a slow start in the NFL and a less impactful final season in Buffalo, the Browns aim to reignite his early 2020s form.
Pass Rush Specialist
While Epenesa excels at pressuring quarterbacks, he's not known for his run defense. Ranked 105th out of 115 edge defenders against the run by Pro Football Focus, his strength lies in disrupting the passing game.
Iowa Legacy
Following his father's footsteps, Epenesa made a name for himself at Iowa. In three seasons, he recorded 26.5 sacks and nine forced fumbles, establishing himself as a standout player before entering the NFL.
Epenesa joins a Browns pass rush group that includes Olivier Vernon, Ogbo Okoronkwo, and Za'Darius Smith. The team isn't seeking a premier pass rusher but values Epenesa's ability to contribute impactful plays in key moments.