Like the Baltimore Ravens earlier this month, the Cleveland Browns have opted against finalizing an offseason agreement. Though much less impactful than Baltimore nixing a blockbuster trade to acquire DE Maxx Crosby, the Browns are choosing against signing free agent EDGE A.J. Epenesa.

Per beat writer, Daniel Oyefusi, like Crosby, the issue is health-related.

The Browns won’t be signing DE A.J. Epenesa as was initially reported, per source. Team wasn’t comfortable finalizing the deal after his physical.

— Daniel Oyefusi (@DanielOyefusi) March 30, 2026

On March 18, ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported the Browns agreed to a one-year deal with Epenesa worth $5 million.

Still just 27 years old, he played in 16 games and recorded 2.5 sacks for the Buffalo Bills last season. Statistical regression from three previous solid and consistent years with the Bills, notching between 6 and 6.5 sacks each year from 2022-2024. He mostly served as a rotational pass rusher.

It’s unclear what medical red flag caused Cleveland to back out of the agreement. In 2025, Epenesa battled pec and foot injuries and missed one game due to a concussion. Like Crosby, no acquisitions are final until a physical is taken and passed. Medical evaluations are subjective. One team can raise a red flag to the point of nixing a deal. Another team may feel comfortable with the evaluation.

Reportedly, Baltimore’s concern with Crosby was over the long-term health of his knee.

Epenesa’s situation marks an interesting week for Cleveland pass rushers. Trade buzz resurfaced when the Browns curiously delayed the option bonus date in DE Myles Garrett’s contract, leaving some to speculate the move was made to buy more time for a trade. At league meetings beginning this weekend, GM Andrew Berry told reporters he has no intentions of trading Garrett.

Pittsburgh has yet to back out of any contract. However, the team still hasn’t officially signed S Darnell Savage, a move that was reported more than two weeks ago. It’s unclear if there’s a true medical concern delaying the deal or another reason is causing the issue.