The Cleveland Browns GM, Andrew Berry, has made a redundant signing at defensive end, according to fans baffled by the move. 

On Wednesday, ESPN's Adam Schefter made a post on X (formerly Twitter), claiming that the Cleveland Browns have signed Josh Allen’s former teammate, defensive end A.J. Epenesa.

According to him, Epenesa has signed a 1-year deal that is worth up to $5 million.

However, fans are questioning the signing because the Browns had one of the best pass-rush units in the 2025 season, led by Myles Garrett. The team desperately needs help in the offense.

As for A.J. Epenesa, the former Iowa Hawkeye will enter his seventh NFL season and has played the previous six for the team that drafted him, the Buffalo Bills, where he shared the locker room with QB Josh Allen.

In the 2025 season, Epenesa played 16 games, recording 2.5 sacks and 2 interceptions. Overall, the defensive end has played 91 games, with 135 total tackles, 24 sacks, four interceptions, and five forced fumbles. 

For Mike Rutenberg and the Browns, this makes that pass rush unit even more aggressive. Epenesa is no doubt a depth signing. However, fans are questioning whether he was the need of the hour.

The Cleveland Browns finished the 2025 season with a 5-12 record. They scored the fewest points in the league (291) and are looking to start Shedeur Sanders at QB this season, after he joined as a rookie just last year.

No wonder fans have started flocking to social media to voice their concern in light of the Epenesa move.

How Are the Browns' Fans Reacting to the Epenesa News?

The Cleveland Browns' front office made a move that the fans do not support. 

One fan commented, “Based on his recent pass rush win rate and pressure percentage, does this signing represent value at $5M?”

One fan frustratingly said, “Another mid defensive end getting overpaid. Browns still searching for answers.” 

There are a few fans who are in favor of this move. 

One fan commented, Low-risk, high-reward move for Cleveland. 1 year up to $5M for a guy who can spell Garrett and bring some juice off the edge? Andrew Berry cooking quietly again.” 

Adding a former second-round pick with 24 career sacks for just $5 million is an absolute steal for Andrew Berry and this defense,” a user said. 

“Epenesa joining the Browns on a one-year, five mil validates edge depth. Former Bills finding a new home. That’s a clean acquisition,” another fan wrote.

It looks like the fanbase is divided by the signing. What do you think about the Browns signing Epenesa? Let us know in the comments.

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Written by

Samvruth Raj

Edited by

Sayantan Gayen