Browns Strike Again: AJ Epenesa Joins Cleveland’s Defensive Front

CLEVELAND — The Cleveland Browns continue their aggressive offseason overhaul, securing pass rusher AJ Epenesa on a one-year, $5 million contract. This move marks the third significant addition to the Browns’ roster in the opening week of the 2026 league year, following the high-profile signing of Pro Bowl offensive lineman Elgton Jenkins and defensive tackle Kalia Davis.

Cleveland’s front office clearly prioritized depth after a 2025 campaign that saw superstar Myles Garrett carry the defense to historic heights. While the team faced its share of struggles last year, Garrett was a force of nature, shattering the NFL single-season record with 23 sacks. The Epenesa signing ensures that Garrett won’t have to shoulder the burden of the pass rush alone this fall.

Epenesa Seeks a Fresh Start in the AFC North

Epenesa, 27, moves to Cleveland after a five-year stint with the Buffalo Bills. While his 2025 stats—32 tackles, 2.5 sacks, and two interceptions—suggested a dip in production, his prior track record tells a different story. From 2022 to 2024, the former second-round pick maintained a consistent presence in opposing backfields, recording at least six sacks in each of those three seasons.

The Browns are betting on a bounce-back year. In Cleveland’s system, Epenesa should benefit from the double-teams and extra attention Garrett draws on every snap. Adding Epenesa to a defensive line that now includes Kalia Davis (signed for $3 million) suggests a shift toward a more versatile, rotational front. The Browns defense proved it could generate elite pressure last year, and this depth makes them even more dangerous in the fourth quarter.

The Elgton Jenkins signing remains the crown jewel of the Browns’ free agency period, but the defensive additions show a balanced approach. By bringing in Epenesa on a one-year deal, Cleveland keeps their future cap flexibility while giving a proven veteran a “prove-it” platform in front of a passionate Dawg Pound crowd.

“Adding a guy like AJ to this room is huge. He’s been in the league, he knows how to get home, and he’s hungry to show what he can do alongside a guy who just put up 23 sacks. We’re building something special in the trenches.”
— Andrew Berry, Executive Vice President of Football Operations

What’s Next for the Browns

With the defensive line and interior offensive line largely addressed, the Browns’ attention now turns to the 2026 NFL Draft. Cleveland still needs to identify long-term solutions at the skill positions, but the current roster construction suggests a team ready to compete immediately. Fans should expect the team to remain active in the secondary market as they look to capitalize on the prime of Garrett’s record-breaking career.