The Myles Garrett Situation: A Trade or a Compromise?

BEREA, Ohio -- The future of Cleveland Browns defensive end Myles Garrett is a hot topic, particularly after he recorded his fourth consecutive season with 14 or more sacks in 2024, further solidifying his legacy as one of the premier pass rushers of his generation. Yet, amid individual accolades, Garrett finds himself grappling with team struggles, having experienced his sixth losing season since entering the NFL in 2017, culminating in a disappointing 3-14 record.

Garrett has openly expressed his frustration, wishing for his achievements to be coupled with meaningful team success. In late December, he poignantly remarked, "That's a nice accomplishment to have... But we remember 'LT' because he won and did all those things," referencing Hall of Famer Lawrence Taylor, known not just for personal stats but for his transformative role on a winning team.

The Trade Request

In a statement released on Monday, Garrett requested a trade from the Browns, the team that selected him with the No. 1 overall pick in the 2017 NFL Draft. He stated, "My desire to win and compete on the biggest stages won't allow me to be complacent." Despite his talent and past accolades, the Browns' management has shown a firm stance against trading Garrett; sources confirmed the team does not plan to part ways with the reigning Defensive Player of the Year.

General Manager Andrew Berry has reiterated his commitment to Garrett, even dismissing lucrative trade offers of two first-round picks. Significantly, there is still hope within the franchise for an extension for Garrett, who has two years remaining on his five-year, $125 million extension – a deal that had made him the highest-paid non-quarterback at the time.

Financial Constraints and Cap Space Issues

Navigating a potential trade is complicated by Garrett's contract structure and the Browns' salary cap situation. Recent years have seen the team restructuring various contracts to create needed cap space, leading to a challenging predicament. Trading Garrett before June 1 would trigger a staggering dead cap charge of $36 million, while a post-June 1 trade would lessen this to $14.8 million but still not an ideal situation for a franchise looking to build.

Currently, the Browns find themselves more than $60 million over the projected salary cap for 2025, although they can roll over $50 million in unused space from 2024. This necessitates further strategic moves to become cap compliant ahead of free agency.

Historical Context and Future Outlook

The landscape of trades for star pass rushers can yield significant assets; however, the timing must align with the team's rebuilding phase. Previous trades, like Khalil Mack to the Bears, have set a high bar for the value of elite pass rushers. But with Garrett turning 30 in December and the current roster lacking youthful talent after substantial trades for quarterbacks like Deshaun Watson, the Browns are in a precarious position.

Watson's struggles, including low Total QBR ratings and injuries, will factor into the team's quarterback strategy moving forward. Berry’s hope for a renewed trajectory echoes throughout the league, as teams like the Washington Commanders have transformed their fortunes despite similar predicaments.

The looming question is whether Myles Garrett will remain a cornerstone of the Browns' ambitions to turn the franchise around. As the offseason approaches, all eyes will be on how this situation unfolds, potentially redefining the future of both Garrett and the Browns.