Cleveland Browns star pass rusher Myles Garrett’s trade request has added uncertainty to the team’s plans for the future. With a dire salary cap situation and concerns over his age and contract, the Browns are facing a tough decision on whether to keep him or trade him.
The Browns believe Garrett is the NFL’s best defensive player, but his age (29) and contract priorities make him a tricky asset to deal with. If traded without a restructure, the new team would owe Garrett an affordable $44.8 million over the next two seasons. However, the team that trades for him may not be willing or able to offer that much.
The Browns have not backed off their stance on keeping Garrett, despite his public trade request. They face a harsh reality after a 3-14 season and a draft pick that could become a starting point for rebuilding. If they choose to keep him, they’ll need to make significant changes to their contract situation, including potentially restructuring Watson’s deal.
The Browns’ decision on Garrett will have significant implications for the team’s future. Will they prioritize keeping their star player or take a chance on a new rebuild? The league knows Garrett is likely available and teams are willing to pay a premium price to acquire him. The Browns have a limited window to make a decision, as trade proposals will flood them at the NFL Scouting Combine in three weeks.
Source: https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6111260/2025/02/04/myles-garrett-browns-trade-nfl-draft-picks