The essentials
Epenesa visits Miami after Browns deal collapses on failed physical.
Defensive end A.J. Epenesa is generating market movement following a failed physical with the Cleveland Browns. The Browns withdrew their contract offer after the physical, opening the door for other teams to pursue the pass rusher.
The Miami Dolphins hosted Epenesa on a free agent visit, signaling active interest in adding him to their defensive line. Despite the setback in Cleveland, Epenesa's market value remains intact following a productive 2025 season with the Buffalo Bills, where he played all 16 games despite multiple injuries.
Epenesa's connection to the Bills runs deep—he was drafted by Buffalo as a second-round pick in 2020 and signed a two-year contract extension in 2024. His durability this past season, combined with renewed interest from Miami, positions him as an intriguing free agent target in the 2025 market.
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Failed Physical Opens New Opportunity for Epenesa
The Browns' withdrawal creates a reset moment in Epenesa's free agency. Though a failed physical raises durability questions, his completion of a full 16-game season with Buffalo just weeks earlier demonstrates on-field resilience. Miami's visit suggests teams view the Browns' medical concern as team-specific rather than disqualifying, giving Epenesa a genuine market alternative as other clubs evaluate their defensive needs.
Five-Year Bills History Defines Epenesa's Free Agency Value
Since entering the league as Buffalo's 2020 second-round selection, Epenesa has built a five-year foundation with the organization. His 2024 contract extension signaled the Bills' commitment despite prior injury concerns. Now testing free agency while simultaneously fielding interest from a divisional rival, Epenesa's trajectory reflects a player attempting to leverage proven production against legitimate medical hesitation from at least one major franchise.