The NFL landscape was rocked with the news that Cleveland Browns’ defensive powerhouse Myles Garrett is seeking a new team. This isn’t just a bluff – sources suggest Garrett’s message feels like a definitive farewell to Cleveland. While the Browns have had their fair share of ups and downs, Garrett’s potential departure undoubtedly shakes up their future plans.
With Garrett’s stellar resume, there’s no shortage of teams lining up to potentially snag one of the league’s premier defensive talents. Let’s dive into the top candidates slugging it out in the Garrett sweepstakes:
Detroit Lions
The Lions stand out as a compelling contender for Garrett’s talents. Their defensive ambitions hinge on finding a strong partner for Aiden Hutchinson, especially after his unfortunate injury. Known for their aggressive roster moves, Detroit’s appetite for talent is unquestionable – remember when they boldly scooped up Jahmyr Gibbs early in the draft? Adding Garrett could fulfill their pressing need for a formidable pass rush.
Atlanta Falcons
Locked in a middle-ground struggle for too long, the Falcons are aching for a breakthrough after multiple seasons of moderate success but little post-season impact. Their gamble on Kirk Cousins hasn’t delivered, and with Michael Penix Jr leading the charge at QB, bolstering their defense with Garrett’s unstoppable edge could be the game-changer they desperately need.
Washington Commanders
Washington could be the most logical destination. They’re a Championship contender with a glaring need for edge dominance. Stocked with interior heavies like Da’Ron Payne and Jonathan Allen, they’ve been lacking a consistent edge presence. Their commitment to going all-in during this quarterback rookie contract era was demonstrated by decisive trades for Marshon Lattimore and moving up in the draft for Johnny Newton. Adding Garrett? It could be worth spending significant draft capital because his impact far exceeds what a late-first-rounder could bring.
Arizona Cardinals
The Cardinals enter this conversation fueled by an impressive $71 million in cap space. Such financial freedom could facilitate securing a star like Garrett, potentially reworking his contract to match elite payout standards akin to Nick Bosa’s deal. Arizona, ready to splash their cap space, could stand strong in this trade, making a tempting proposition for the Browns.
Dallas Cowboys
Returning home might be on the cards for Garrett, who cut his teeth in Texas from high school through college at Texas A&M. The Cowboys, despite a hefty payroll with stars like Micah Parsons, Ceedee Lamb, and Dak Prescott, could form a terrifying tandem by adding Garrett to their defensive front. Imagine Dak Prescott being backed by a Top-10 defense – the possibilities are as deep as the Cowboys’ pockets.
Evaluating the Trade Compensation
In pondering Garrett’s market value, it’s impossible not to think back to when Khalil Mack packed his bags for Chicago at age 27. That blockbuster deal set the precedent: two first-round selections, among other picks in both directions. Despite being two years older than Mack at the time of his trade, Garrett’s dominant 14-sack season ensures any interested team will be shelving out some significant draft capital – likely a first-round and a second-round pick at a minimum.
As Myles Garrett weighs his next move, the NFL universe holds its breath, knowing whoever wins his services is gaining not just a player but a game-changer who could tilt the balance of power in the league.
