The Detroit Lions made a few changes to their pass-rushing rotation so far this offseason, but fans would love to see more upgrades. DJ Wonnum and Payton Turner were brought in, with the former taking the place of Al-Quadin Muhammad as the top edge rusher behind Aidan Hutchinson. Wonnum has been a productive defender for most of his career, but he had only three sacks despite starting 15 games for the Panthers last season. Turner, on the other hand, missed the entire 2025 campaign and had a career-worst 54.0 Pro Football Focus grade in his last healthy season.
Therefore, it's hard for Lions fans to feel good about the depth and quality of their pass rush. That is why the AJ Epenesa saga in Cleveland could provide an opportunity with the Lions.
Earlier in free agency, the Browns had announced the signing of Epenesa on a one-year, $5 million deal. On Sunday, the Browns backed out of the deal because they weren't "comfortable finalizing the deal after his physical," per ESPN's Daniel Oyefusi.
Lions Should Consider Adding AJ Epenesa After Browns Deal Falls Through
The former Bills defender had dealt with a foot injury and a neck issue last year, but ended up playing 16 games for Buffalo. The details of his physical haven't been revealed yet, but this puts an attractive free agent back on the dwindling EDGE market.
This obviously raises the risk factor for any team trying to sign Epenesa. The Lions would have to do their due diligence before putting pen to paper, but as long as they protect themselves in the contract, they would be wise to take a chance on Epenesa. This wouldn't be the first time a player remained effective despite his physical results raising concerns with another team. Maxx Crosby's trade to the Baltimore Ravens was rescinded earlier this month, after all.
Epenesa may have failed his physical, but he has been durable for most of his career. He has missed only three games over the past three seasons. He is a big, downhill defender who has elite length at six-foot-six. He has the physical tools and the rugged style that the Lions have preferred in their defensive line over the years. Think of him as the player the Lions thought Marcus Davenport could be for this team when they signed him. Plus, he has a ton of postseason experience, playing at least two playoff games every season of his career.
It's not like the Lions have other excellent options in free agency. Every other quality free agent pass rusher is way past their 30s and comes with serious risks. Joey Bosa, Leonard Floyd, and Jadeveon Clowney could be solid options, but they are significantly older and more expensive than Epenesa.
It would still behoove the Lions to add a pass rusher through the Draft, but you can never have too many defensive ends. Bringing in Epenesa could only benefit the Lions by intensifying the training camp competition and strengthening a crucial position ahead of the season.