NFL free agency: News on 2 former* Browns defensive ends

CLEVELAND, OHIO - OCTOBER 27: Za'Darius Smith #99 of the Cleveland Browns celebrates after a sack in the fourth quarter of a game against the Baltimore Ravens at Huntington Bank Field on October 27, 2024 in Cleveland, Ohio. (Photo by Jason Miller/Getty Images) | Getty Images

As the Cleveland Browns finish up Day 2 of mandatory minicamp, there are more questions than answers at the quarterback position. After the three days together, Browns HC Todd Monken and GM Andrew Berry could also be looking at making some changes on the roster, which could include UFL players or current NFL free agents.

Earlier this offseason, Berry agreed with former Buffalo Bills DE AJ Epenesa to a one-year deal, before a failed physical led the team to void the agreement. While no reason was given for the deal not going through, Epenesa had a number of health issues previously and remained unsigned for over two months.

On Wednesday, the Philadelphia Eagles ended that wait for Epenesa, signing him to a one-year deal. Since Epenesa never officially joined Cleveland's team, we added an asterisk in the title for his time.

At the same time, the Eagles made an interesting move with former Browns DE Za'Darius Smith. Last year, Smith retired abruptly during the season, shocking many. Smith joined Philadelphia after being released by the Detroit Lions, who had traded for him while he was in Cleveland.

On Wednesday, the Eagles released Smith, which could signal that he wants to return to the NFL this year:

Former Pro Bowl edge Za'Darius Smith was released off the #Eagles reserve/retired list today, an indication that he's open to playing in the right situation.

Smith played five games last season before a surprise retirement, but is still only 33 years old. pic.twitter.com/AKH2kYnoSf

- Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) June 10, 2026

In 11 seasons in the NFL, with 6 teams, Smith played in 145 games, contributing 343 tackles, 176 QB hits, 87 tackles for loss, and 70.5 sacks. In a year and a half with the Browns, Smith had 10.5 sacks, 27 QB hits, and 14 tackles for a loss.