“I’m not looking for a rebuild,” Garrett stated firmly. “I’m aiming to win right now. It’s important to me that when the season concludes and we start discussing the future, there is clarity around our intentions. I want to be able to see that in the near future because ultimately, that’s what drives us.”
The NFL’s reigning Defensive Player of the Year stands on the cusp of reaching 100 career sacks this Sunday against the Bengals. While he reiterated his satisfaction with playing for the Browns, Garrett made it clear that he is not entirely content with the current circumstances and hinted that a change might be necessary if winning continues to elude the team.
“I want to remain loyal to a franchise that has shown trust in me by selecting me as their first pick in the 2017 draft,” said Garrett. However, he acknowledged that they must ultimately do what is best for their careers. “If we can align on a vision—one where competing for championships and fielding an outstanding defense are priorities—I believe that will keep me anchored.”
As Garrett approaches his 29th birthday, he still has two years left on a lucrative five-year, $125 million extension. Although he has earned recognition as one of the league’s elite players, the Browns’ overall record during his tenure has not reflected success, as they currently sit at 3-11. While he cannot envision playing for another team, he recognizes that uncertainty lurks around every corner.
“I truly want to be a Cleveland Brown for life,” he said. “I aspire to finish my career here. But if the team opts for a lengthy rebuild, lasting two to four seasons, I need to be in a position to compete at a high level and participate in meaningful games past January.”
Garrett’s rookie year was a historic challenge as the Browns suffered a winless season. Since then, he has seen only two playoff appearances alongside the struggles that have characterized the franchise. Adding to the complexity of the Browns’ roster improvements is the hefty $230 million fully guaranteed contract given to quarterback Deshaun Watson, who has only made 19 starts across three seasons.
Watson is currently recovering from a severe injury, and his future in Cleveland appears uncertain at this stage. The team may have to consider drafting a new quarterback or signing a veteran to add depth at the position, especially as they prepare to field second-year QB Dorian Thompson-Robinson in place of Jameis Winston, who has been struggling significantly with his performance.
Garrett expressed a need for clarity on the team’s plans for the quarterback situation. “Absolutely. The uncertainty is palpable from the outside, and it feels the same for us,” he commented. “Whether DTR is the answer or if they are looking elsewhere, we need to establish a clear plan and understanding of where we’re headed.”
In a show of support for head coach Kevin Stefanski and general manager Andrew Berry, who both secured multi-year contract extensions last summer, Garrett highlighted that he believes they have the right leadership in place. Stefanski, who has won Coach of the Year twice in five years, has garnered Garrett’s respect.
“Stefanski is trustworthy,” Garrett noted. “He follows through on his commitments, both on and off the field. If he assures us he has our backs, I genuinely trust him because he has consistently proven this, not just for me, but for the entire team. That builds a lot of confidence among us.”