Cleveland Browns star defensive end Myles Garrett has officially requested a trade from the team, a move that raises eyebrows across the sports world. The request, made on February 3, 2025, comes after a disappointing season where the Browns ended with a 3-14 record. Garrett is determined to find a team that can help him chase the elusive Super Bowl title, a dream that feels distant in Cleveland.
Myles Garrett’s Frustration
Garrett, a six-time Pro Bowler and the NFL’s reigning Defensive Player of the Year, expressed that his desire to win was the primary driver behind his trade request. After spending eight seasons with the Browns, where achievements were overshadowed by dismal team performance, Garrett has grown frustrated. Despite his impressive stats, including 102.5 career sacks that put him fifth all-time, the team’s struggles have left him questioning his future in Cleveland.
Financial Commitments
This request comes as the Browns have two years remaining on Garrett’s lucrative five-year, $125 million contract, which he signed in 2020. With salary cap hits of $19.7 million in 2025 and $20.4 million in 2026, the financial implications of a trade could complicate matters. Additionally, Garrett is due a $5 million roster bonus on March 16, 2025, adding urgency to the situation.
General Manager’s Stance
Browns general manager Andrew Berry has publicly stated that he does not intend to trade Garrett, dismissing rumors and even rejecting a hypothetical trade offer of two first-round draft picks. Berry’s firm stance indicates that, despite Garrett’s wishes, the team remains focused on keeping the player it drafted first overall in 2017.
Garrett’s Achievements
Garrett’s achievements speak for themselves. Over his career, he has recorded an impressive 14.0 sacks and three forced fumbles in the 2024 season alone. His ability to influence games has garnered him respect and recognition, but unfortunately, the Browns have only reached the playoffs twice since he joined the team—once in 2020 and again in 2023.
Looking for a Change
While Garrett’s trade request might come as a shock to some, it reflects a larger theme in professional sports—the desire for players to find an environment conducive to winning. The Browns’ difficulties in sustaining success have led to discussions about their overall strategy and leadership, leading fans to speculate what the team must change to keep talent like Garrett.
Reactions from Around the League
Experts, analysts, and fans have weighed in on Garrett’s trade request, speculating about where he might land if a trade does occur. Stephen A. Smith, a prominent sports commentator, suggested that the quarterback situation within the Browns organization has contributed significantly to Garrett’s feelings of dissatisfaction. As discussions continue, many are eager to see how this situation unfolds and where Garrett may end up in the future.
Current Situation in Cleveland
The Browns are at a crossroads as they face the possibility of losing one of their franchise cornerstones. The mix of financial aspects, player ambitions, and the team’s performance will inevitably affect how Garrett’s trade request is managed. Fans remain hopeful that their team will turn things around, but one only knows how truly committed the team is to keeping its star defensive player amidst this turmoil.
| Season | Record | Sacks | Pro Bowls |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 3-14 | 14.0 | 6 |
This trade request highlights the challenges and dreams every player faces in the competitive world of professional sports. Garrett’s ambition mirrors that of many athletes who strive for greatness and recognition, and his journey is one to watch as the NFL offseason progresses.
