Veteran Defensive End A.J. Epenesa Visits Dolphins

The former Buffalo Bills player is looking for a new team after failing a physical with the Cleveland Browns.

Apr. 16, 2026 at 10:52pm

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting the dynamic movements of a defensive lineman, with sharp planes of teal, orange, and navy blue colliding to capture the intensity of the pass rush.A cubist interpretation of a defensive end's explosive pass rush, reflecting the unpredictable nature of free agency and the Dolphins' search for defensive line depth.Denver Today

Veteran defensive end A.J. Epenesa, who spent the past six seasons with the Buffalo Bills, visited the Miami Dolphins on Thursday. Epenesa was set to sign a one-year, $5 million contract with the Cleveland Browns in March, but failed his physical due to an undisclosed injury, leading the Browns to not sign him. The former Iowa Hawkeyes star is now exploring other options, including a potential deal with the Dolphins.

Why it matters

The Dolphins are in need of defensive line depth, and Epenesa could provide experienced depth behind projected starters Chop Robinson and Josh Uche. However, Epenesa's injury history, including a concussion and injuries to his pectoral, foot, and neck last season, are a concern.

The details

Epenesa, a second-round draft pick by the Bills in 2020, had his best season in 2024 when he started 13 games and recorded 23 solo tackles, two forced fumbles, six sacks, and a safety. However, he was limited to just two starts last season due to the various injuries. He has played in 14 playoff games with the Bills, recording five pass deflections, 17 combined tackles, and three QB hits.

  • Epenesa visited the Dolphins on Thursday, April 16, 2026.
  • In March 2026, Epenesa was set to sign a one-year, $5 million contract with the Cleveland Browns, but failed his physical due to an undisclosed injury.

The players

A.J. Epenesa

A veteran defensive end who has spent the past six seasons with the Buffalo Bills. He was a second-round draft pick by the Bills in 2020 and is now exploring free agent options after failing a physical with the Cleveland Browns.

Tua Tagovailoa

The Miami Dolphins' starting quarterback, who was sidelined for three games in 2021 due to a rib injury sustained from a hit by Epenesa.

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What’s next

If the Dolphins sign Epenesa, he would likely provide depth for the team's defensive line rotation, competing for a backup role alongside other newcomers like Robert Beal Jr. and David Ojabo.

The takeaway

The Dolphins' interest in Epenesa highlights their need for defensive line depth, but his injury history raises concerns about his long-term viability. Any potential deal would likely be a low-cost, one-year contract as the team continues to build out its roster.