Cleveland Browns star defensive end Myles Garrett has officially requested a trade, sending shockwaves through the NFL. The elite pass rusher, known for his dominance on the field, reportedly wants to join a team with a stronger chance to compete for a Super Bowl.
Garrett, 29, has been a cornerstone of the Cleveland Browns defense for eight seasons, accumulating 102.5 sacks. His desire to leave Cleveland puts the team in a tough position, as they must weigh the benefits of retaining their defensive leader against the possible trade compensation they could receive.
Why Does Myles Garrett Want to Leave Cleveland?
Despite the Browns' recent improvements, Garrett appears frustrated with the team’s lack of playoff success. He has been one of the most consistent edge rushers in the league, but Cleveland has failed to capitalize on his talent.
Some possible reasons for his trade request include:
- Lack of sustained success: The Browns have made the playoffs just twice in Garrett’s career.
- Contract flexibility: A new team may be able to offer him a restructured or extended deal.
- Championship aspirations: Garrett may want to play for a legitimate Super Bowl contender.
Contractual Challenges in Trading Myles Garrett
One of the biggest obstacles in moving Garrett is his contract structure. The Browns would face significant financial penalties due to previous contract restructures.
Salary Cap Implications for the Browns
- Dead cap hit: If Cleveland trades Garrett before June 1, 2025, they would face a $36 million dead cap charge.
- Post-June 1 trade: If they wait until after June 1, they could spread the cap hit over multiple seasons, making the move more manageable.
- Current cap hit: Keeping Garrett on the roster in 2025 would count $19.72 million against the cap—far less than the dead cap hit of a trade.
Financial Impact for the New Team
Any team that trades for Garrett would inherit a relatively affordable deal for a player of his caliber:
- $20 million in 2025
- $25 million in 2026
However, it is likely that Garrett would seek a contract extension once traded to a new team.
Top Trade Destinations for Myles Garrett
Several NFL teams could make sense as landing spots for Garrett. Below are some of the best fits based on team needs, cap space, and their current competitive windows.
1. Detroit Lions – A Team on the Verge of Greatness
The Detroit Lions have transformed into a legitimate NFC contender but struggled with pass rushing in 2024, ranking 23rd in sacks (37). Adding Garrett would immediately elevate their defensive unit.
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Why it makes sense:
- The Lions have the cap space to absorb Garrett’s contract.
- Pairing him with Aidan Hutchinson could create one of the best defensive duos in the NFL.
- Detroit has Super Bowl aspirations after a strong 2024 season.
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Trade Proposal:
- Lions receive: DE Myles Garrett
- Browns receive: 2025 first-round pick, 2026 second-round pick, and a young defensive player.
2. Philadelphia Eagles – Boosting a Declining Pass Rush
The Philadelphia Eagles’ pass rush took a step back after their record-breaking 2022 season. Adding Garrett would restore their defensive dominance.
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Why it makes sense:
- Philadelphia's defense regressed in 2024, needing an elite pass rusher.
- The Eagles have an aggressive front office willing to make big trades.
- Garrett could be the missing piece for another Super Bowl run.
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Trade Proposal:
- Eagles receive: DE Myles Garrett
- Browns receive: 2025 first-round pick, 2026 third-round pick, and a rotational defensive lineman.
3. New England Patriots – Rebuilding Around Defensive Strength
The New England Patriots are in a rebuilding phase and have plenty of cap space to take on Garrett’s contract. With their young defense developing, adding a veteran star could accelerate their rebuild.
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Why it makes sense:
- The Patriots have $85+ million in cap space in 2025.
- They lack a dominant pass rusher after losing Matthew Judon to injury.
- Garrett would fit perfectly in Bill Belichick’s defensive system.
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Trade Proposal:
- Patriots receive: DE Myles Garrett
- Browns receive: 2025 first-round pick, 2026 second-round pick, and a defensive prospect.
What Would the Browns Gain in a Trade?
If Cleveland does decide to trade Garrett, they could receive multiple first-round picks or a combination of high draft capital and a young star.
- Possible Returns:
- A first-round pick + second-round pick.
- A first-round pick + a young player on a rookie contract.
- A combination of draft picks and financial relief.
Final Thoughts: Will the Browns Trade Garrett?
While Garrett's trade request has shaken the NFL world, the Browns are not obligated to trade him. Given the massive financial penalties involved, Cleveland may attempt to resolve internal conflicts or restructure his contract to keep him.
However, if the Browns decide to part ways with their star defender, teams like Detroit, Philadelphia, and New England will likely aggressively pursue him.
In the coming weeks, all eyes will be on Cleveland’s front office to see whether they honor Garrett’s trade request or attempt to keep their franchise defensive player.
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