Browns Boost Defense with Epenesa, Williams Signings

0:00On March 19th, the Cleveland Browns turned their attention to defense this week after prioritizing offense and free agency. They signed Edge-Rusher AJ Epinessa to a one-year deal worth up to $5 million with incentives. The 27-year-old joins one of the NFL's top defensive lines for the 2026 season. Earlier this week, the team also added linebacker Quincy Williams on defense. He reunites with new defensive coordinator Mike Routenberg and steps in for veteran Devon Bush. Epinessa comes over from the Buffalo Bills after a solid career star as a second-round pick in the 2020 NFL draft out of Iowa. Fans and analysts see this as a smart, depth move amid some recent struggles for Epinessa. He posted 75 tackles, 19 sacks, and five forced fumbles from 2022 to 2024 with Buffalo. Last year, though, he managed just two and a half sacks over 16 games, paving the way for his availability. Epinessa fits as a reliable rotation option behind stars Miles Garrett and Alex Wright.

1:05His experience will help develop younger players like Isaiah McGuire and Wright, boosting overall front-deaf. With these additions, Cleveland's defense heads into training camp stronger and more versatile, ready to build on their strengths next season.