The Buffalo Bills have officially parted ways with defensive end A.J. Epenesa, who has signed a one-year contract with the Cleveland Browns. The move was confirmed on March 19, 2026, with ESPN's Adam Schefter reporting that the deal is worth up to $5 million. This development marks the end of Epenesa's six-year tenure with Buffalo, where he was the 54th overall pick in the 2020 NFL Draft.
For the Bills, Epenesa's departure represents a notable shift in their defensive line rotation and a prompt for general manager Brandon Beane and the new coaching staff to recalibrate their edge rusher depth chart. Epenesa's contribution as a rotational pass rusher with a blend of size, length, and versatility helped complement Buffalo's defensive front, even if he never ascended to a full-time starting role.
Epenesa's Career in Buffalo
Selected in the second round out of Iowa, A.J. Epenesa arrived in Buffalo with expectations as a promising pass-rusher. Over the years, he developed into a dependable member of the Bills' defensive line, often contributing in situational packages where his ability to set the edge and rush the quarterback came in handy.
His best statistical season came in 2023 when he posted a career-high 6.5 sacks, demonstrating flashes of the potential that originally made him a coveted prospect. However, with fluctuating snap counts and the Bills' evolving roster needs, Epenesa remained primarily a sub-package player. The Bills' depth at defensive end and the salary cap challenges likely influenced their decision not to re-sign him, opening the door for him to explore opportunities elsewhere.
The Coaching and Management Context
It is important to note that the Bills' coaching staff has changed since Epenesa's drafting. The current head coach is Joe Brady, with Pete Carmichael Jr. as offensive coordinator, Jim Leonhard as defensive coordinator, and Brandon Beane serving as general manager. Previous references to Sean McDermott as head coach are outdated, as McDermott parted ways with the team following the 2025 season. This leadership transition is key as the Bills navigate roster moves and defensive line personnel decisions in 2026.
The Cleveland Browns, meanwhile, currently are led by head coach Todd Monken, offensive coordinator Travis Switzer, defensive coordinator Mike Rutenberg, and general manager Andrew Berry. Their recent signing of Epenesa adds to an already formidable defensive line, offering additional depth and rotational options.
Impact on the Bills' Defense
Epenesa's exit leaves a tangible vacancy in Buffalo's defensive end depth chart, especially for a role that leveraged his length and pass-rushing ability on the edge of a 4-3 front. Despite his limited snaps as a starter, he was a reliable force in rotations that demand fresh, disruptive pass rushers.
With the departure of Epenesa, pressure mounts on the remaining defensive ends and the Bills' front office to fill that void, either via free agency, the NFL Draft, or internal development. The Bills have built a reputation for effectively developing defensive line talent, and this situation will test their ability to maintain that pipeline amid roster turnover and salary cap constraints.
A New Chapter in Cleveland
For Epenesa, the move to Cleveland is a fresh start. The Browns boast a strong defensive front, and adding Epenesa provides them with a situational pass rusher capable of contributing immediately. The one-year deal suggests a prove-it scenario for Epenesa to showcase his skills and increase his market value ahead of the 2027 offseason.
From Cleveland's perspective, the contract is a low-risk move with upside potential, bolstering their defensive line depth without a significant long-term financial commitment.
Looking Ahead for Buffalo
While the departure of A.J. Epenesa is not franchise-altering, it is a meaningful roster change for Buffalo's defense. The Bills will continue their work to replace his role as they prepare for the 2026 season under Joe Brady's leadership. The challenge remains to sustain the defensive line's reliability and rotational endurance that were hallmarks of the previous regime.
In the NFL's competitive environment, roster churn is inevitable, and the Bills' ability to quickly identify and integrate new talent at defensive end will be crucial. Whether through draft picks, free agency, or player development, Buffalo aims to ensure that their defensive line remains a pillar of strength and versatility in the coming seasons.
