BEREA, Ohio — Throughout his standout eight-year NFL career, Myles Garrett has taken down 31 different quarterbacks. On a notable Friday, the celebrated four-time All-Pro edge rusher found himself tackling a different challenge – addressing the media about extending his time with the Cleveland Browns through a new contract, instead of getting his wish to be traded.
“Frustration was a part of the process,” Garrett admitted. “But it was an opportunity for growth and for having the challenging conversations that were absolutely essential,” he added.
Garrett sealed a four-year extension, with an astonishing average annual salary of $40 million, cementing his status as the highest-earning non-quarterback in NFL’s history. This lucrative deal finally puts to rest a month-long speculation that started around the time of the Super Bowl, when Garrett, named 2023’s AP Defensive Player of the Year, first made his trade request. The Browns were steadfast in their stance, refusing to consider trade offers.
Garrett noted that expressing his dissatisfaction and trade request during the Super Bowl week turned out to be the spark needed for deeper dialogue with general manager Andrew Berry about the Browns’ trajectory. As Garrett remarked, those interactions led to better rapport and understanding within the team’s leadership.
“At first, it was a tense situation, but those discussions helped foster growth, built new relationships, and strengthened old ones,” Garrett reflected. “Today, we’re in a much better place, ready to advance from here,” he expressed optimistically.
He also mentioned that owner Jimmy Haslam’s minimal involvement in the negotiations allowed him and Berry to reach common ground effectively.
This new contract, promising $122.8 million fully guaranteed within a total $204.8 million package, has stirred some fans’ perceptions that money was Garrett’s primary motivator. He’s keen to prove them wrong.
“For anyone wondering if this was just about a paycheck, my intention is to let my actions speak louder than those whispers,” Garrett declared. He remained focused on being the best team player and leader both on and off the field, just as much as his drive to excel during games. “It’s my performances and dedication that will reflect my true intentions more than any words ever could.”
Since being drafted in 2017, Garrett has experienced the Browns reaching the playoffs only twice, while accumulating an impressive career total of 102.5 sacks, including 14 last year alone.
With his new deal, expectations grow for Garrett not only as a dominating force on the field but also as a leader and an advocate for attracting talented free agents to the Browns.
Recently, Garrett engaged with quarterback Russell Wilson at the Browns facility, suggesting to Wilson, during a Pro Bowl chat, how he might be a remarkable addition to Cleveland’s roster.
“Russell would provide immense value as a mentor and leader for the younger players. The experience he brings cannot be overstated. He still has plenty of ability in his arm, a sharp football acumen, and knows exactly how he can still contribute. He represents a significant asset,” Garrett commented thoughtfully.
