Myles Garrett, star defensive end for the Cleveland Browns, has officially requested to be traded, igniting discussions about his future and the NFL's trade market. This announcement, made on Monday, has fans and analysts alike speculating on whether the Browns will accommodate one of their most talented players.
Garrett, who has spent his entire eight-year career with the Browns after being drafted first overall in the 2017 NFL Draft, cited his ambition to win a Super Bowl as his primary motivation for wanting to leave. "The goal was never to go from Cleveland to Canton; it has always been to compete for and win a Super Bowl," he stated. The 29-year-old expressed his deep connection to the city and its fans, saying, "My love for the community of Northeast Ohio and the incredible fanbase of the Cleveland Browns has made this one of the toughest decisions of my life." His trade request signals his growing frustration with the team's direction following another disappointing season.
Despite Garrett's impressive resume, which includes six Pro Bowl selections, four first-team All-Pro honors, and winning the 2023 NFL Defensive Player of the Year, many are skeptical about whether the Browns will actually trade him. Cleveland general manager Andrew Berry has maintained firmness on his stance, declaring, "I wouldn’t do [a trade] publicly,” when asked about the likelihood of parting with Garrett, even if offered multiple first-round draft picks.
Reports indicate the Browns have no intentions to engage in trade talks involving Garrett, with NFL Network's Mike Garafolo reiter saying, "[The Browns] do not intend to have any conversations or trade [Myles] Garrett." This defiance from the team raises concerns among fans about the management's commitment to building a competitive roster capable of winning next season.
Garrett's ability on the field cannot be overstated. Over his career, he has proven to be one of the most disruptive edge rushers, compiling over 102.5 sacks and numerous accolades. This past season, he achieved 14 sacks, leading the league with 22 tackles for loss and notching three forced fumbles, proving he remains at the top of his game. Each of these achievements underpins his strong desire to play on winning teams and take home the coveted Lombardi Trophy.
While the Browns may resist trading Garrett, multiple teams are likely to come knocking on their door, eager to acquire his talent. An unnamed NFL executive noted, "I'd give up two first-round picks and more to land Garrett." The financial aspect of this potential trade would need to be considered as well—with Garrett’s hefty $20 million cap hit due over the next two years making teams reflective of their trading capabilities.
Several potential landing spots have emerged, including playoff contenders such as the Washington Commanders, Detroit Lions, and New England Patriots. The Commanders, for example, have over $78 million worth of cap space and could afford Garrett, enhancing their defense which struggled last season. For the Lions, Garrett could pair excellently with rising star Aidan Hutchinson, forming one of the league's most formidable pass-rushing units. Using their over $46 million cap space, the Lions would look to capitalize on their current Super Bowl window.
The Patriots, with new head coach Mike Vrabel, boast the largest cap space of any team at approximately $120 million, making it plausible for them to take on Garrett's hefty contract. They, too, need star talents to compete effectively and make deep playoff runs. Meanwhile, teams like the Green Bay Packers could view Garrett as the missing piece to transform their outdated defense. The last prospective landing spot is the Las Vegas Raiders, whose desire to rebuild could be complemented by acquiring such elite talent, even if their quarterback situation remains questionable.
Despite the rumors circulating around trade possibilities, Garrett has emphasized his love for Cleveland, saying, “These past eight years have shaped me.” His statements reflect his internal conflict, as he balances his appreciation for the city against his ambition to win. While team executives and fans remain divided on his future, the ramifications of his trade request could influence the direction of the Browns’ franchise and Garrett's legacy within the NFL.
For now, all eyes are on Cleveland as Garret’s trade request has set the stage for what could be one of the more significant moves of the offseason as both teams and players navigate this turning point. It's clear Myles Garrett's name will dominate headlines as this story continues to evolve, each chapter driven by the pursuit of victory against the backdrop of professional football.