It could've been one of 3 things :
1. A DirecTv aircraft where the FA comped the DirecTV for whatever reason
2. A CO 752 that was a sub for a CO 753 or
3. A UA PS 752 that was a sub for a UA domestic 752.
Also regarding Row 27, it's no where near an exit row on any 757 configuration so it shouldn't have limited recline.