The Detroit Lions could have a new opportunity to strengthen their pass rush after the Cleveland Browns reportedly backed out of a deal with defensive end A. J. Epenesa.

Detroit made several moves to improve its defensive line this offseason, but questions remain about the depth behind star pass rusher Aidan Hutchinson. With Epenesa suddenly available again, the Lions may now have a chance to add another proven edge defender before the season begins.

Lions Pass Rush Still Needs Depth

The Lions already brought in D. J. Wonnum and Payton Turner during free agency to help bolster their edge rotation.

Wonnum was expected to replace Al-Quadin Muhammad as the primary pass rusher behind Hutchinson. However, despite starting 15 games for the Carolina Panthers last season, Wonnum finished with just three sacks.

Turner, meanwhile, missed the entire 2025 season after struggling with injuries. In his last healthy campaign, he recorded a career-low 54.0 grade from Pro Football Focus.

Because of those uncertainties, many Lions fans believe the team still needs another reliable edge rusher.

Browns Back Out of A.J. Epenesa Signing

Earlier in free agency, the Browns had announced they signed Epenesa to a one-year, $5 million contract. However, according to Daniel Oyefusi of ESPN, Cleveland later decided not to finalize the agreement after concerns emerged during his physical.

Epenesa dealt with both a foot injury and a neck issue last season while playing for the Buffalo Bills, though he still managed to appear in 16 games.

The exact details behind the failed physical have not been publicly disclosed.

Why A.J. Epenesa Could Make Sense for Detroit

Despite the Browns’ concerns, Epenesa has generally been durable throughout his career. Over the past three seasons, he has missed only three games.

At 6-foot-6 with elite length, Epenesa fits the physical profile Detroit has often preferred along its defensive line. His power-based playing style and ability to set the edge could complement Hutchinson and strengthen the Lions’ defensive rotation.

In many ways, he represents the type of player Detroit hoped Marcus Davenport would become when they signed him in the past.

Another appealing factor is Epenesa’s postseason experience. During his time in Buffalo, he played in multiple playoff games and was part of one of the NFL’s most consistent contenders.

Lions Could Take a Low-Risk Chance

The Lions would still need to carefully evaluate Epenesa’s health before offering a contract. However, a short-term or incentive-based deal could reduce the risk while giving Detroit another capable pass-rushing option.

Compared with other veteran free agents such as Joey Bosa, Leonard Floyd, and Jadeveon Clowney, Epenesa would likely be younger and less expensive.

Detroit could still address the edge position in the upcoming draft, but adding Epenesa would provide additional depth and create stronger competition during training camp.

If the Lions want to strengthen their pass rush before the 2026 season, this unexpected development in Cleveland might present the perfect opportunity.