CLEVELAND — Myles Garrett was not in a celebratory mood for his birthday, especially after an underwhelming performance from the Cleveland Browns. Despite recording two sacks in the game, Garrett made NFL history by becoming the first player to achieve 14 sacks in four consecutive seasons. However, this record-setting feat was overshadowed by the Browns’ disappointing 20-3 defeat to the Miami Dolphins.
Turning 29 on game day, Garrett continued to shine individually amid a dismal season for the Browns, who now sit at 3-13. Expectations for progress after last year’s playoff appearance have been dashed, leading to uncertainty about significant changes within the organization during the upcoming offseason.
Garrett’s current tally stands at 14 sacks for the season, bringing his career total to 102.5 over eight seasons. His performance strengthens his candidacy for a second consecutive NFL Defensive Player of the Year award. Despite these accolades, the ongoing frustrations of yet another disappointing season linger for him.
“At the end of the day, we play for wins,” Garrett stressed. “Individual achievements are nice, but cities remember you for victories and bringing championships back home. I want to get back into a winning mindset, whether it’s the last game or what lies ahead next season.”
Garrett has explicitly expressed his desire to avoid participating in another rebuilding phase, signaling his wish to see concrete plans from the team regarding roster improvements. His comments hint at a potential trade request if he feels dissatisfied with how the Browns are progressing.
Following the loss—which marked the Browns’ fifth consecutive defeat—Garrett dismissed any thoughts that the game might have been his last in a Cleveland uniform. He stated, “I don’t think about that kind of stuff. My focus is on leading this team to victory, and that’s it. My next concerns are recovery and reviewing film to find ways to improve before our game against the Ravens.”
Garrett remains determined, showing relentless effort even when he hasn’t been able to register a sack while pursuing mobile quarterbacks in recent weeks.
“He’s the best pass rusher in the game,” commented Browns guard Joel Bitonio. “You can ask any player or coach—they all recognize how formidable he is. He’s a dynamic, extraordinary talent. I hope we can build a stronger team around him so he can experience winning here.”
In the course of the game, Garrett was seen entering the medical tent on two occasions and took his time returning to his locker afterward. In an attempt to lighten the mood in an otherwise gloomy locker room, he turned on some upbeat music.
When questioned about how he manages to push through the season, Garrett responded with a hint of humor. “I’m just getting old,” he joked. “I’m 29. There’s no dragging myself across the finish line. I’ll be good by Friday or Saturday and ready to give it my all, as always.”
