Philadelphia Eagles Sign Edge Rusher A.J. Epenesa After Browns’ Deal Falls Through

On Wednesday, June 10 2026, the Philadelphia Eagles announced the signing of defensive end A.J. Epenesa, adding depth to their edge-rusher group ahead of mandatory minicamp and a late-July training camp. The team did not disclose contract terms. The signing ends a three-month free-agency period after a prior deal fell through.

Philly Voice

In March, the Cleveland Browns agreed to a one-year, up-to-$5 million contract with Epenesa, but withdrew after he failed the team’s physical. Sources linked the failure to a concussion, pectoral injury, foot problem and neck issue.

Eagles Sign Aj Epenesa After Browns Backed Out

Epenesa was the Buffalo Bills’ 54th-overall pick in the 2020 draft. In six seasons he played 91 regular-season games (19 starts), posting 24 sacks, 135 tackles, 53 quarterback hits, four interceptions, five forced fumbles and 21 passes defensed. He recorded at least 6.0 sacks each year from 2022-2024. In 2025 he appeared in 16 games, tallying 2.5 sacks, 32 tackles and nine quarterback hits.

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The Eagles issued a press release confirming Epenesa’s addition, also signing guard Michael Jordan and waiving linebackers Chandler Martin and Isiah King. The team removed edge rusher Za’Darius Smith from the reserve/retired list, making him a free agent. No financial terms were disclosed.

Heavy

Commentary in *The Liberty Line* warned that the Eagles’ gamble could backfire if the physical issue proves substantive, noting that a failed physical could cost a roster spot. The piece called the signing a “free veteran pass rusher” that carries risk given the depth of the Eagles’ edge-rusher corps.

Heavy

Public reports confirm the Browns’ withdrawal and the Eagles’ signing, but the exact terms of Epenesa’s contract remain undisclosed. The specific medical findings that led the Browns to void the deal have not been released, leaving the nature of the injury concerns unclear.

Philly Voice

"Eagles signed former Bills DE A.J. Epenesa." — Adam Schefter, ESPN

Heavy

"Epenesa originally was Buffalo’s 2020 second-round pick. He planned to sign with the Browns in March, but didn’t pass his physical. Now he lands in Philadelphia." — Adam Schefter, ESPN

Philly Voice

"Former Bills second-round pick A.J. Epenesa has a new home." — Mike Garofolo, NFL Network

Heavy

"If the physical that spooked Cleveland turns out to be nothing, this is a free veteran pass rusher in June. If it turns out to be something, it cost the Eagles a roster spot. I’ve seen Howie lose worse bets." — The Liberty Line (commentary)

Eagles sign former second-round pick to bolster their pass rushHeavyPhilly VoiceEagles Sign Aj Epenesa After Browns Backed OutESPNEagles sign veteran defensive end among other post-minicamp moves

The Eagles will evaluate Epenesa during training camp beginning in late July and decide his role on the depth chart before the regular season.

Eagles sign veteran defensive end among other post-minicamp moves