Browns Deal Myles Garrett to Rams in Major Trade

The Cleveland Browns have completed a significant trade, sending two-time AP NFL Defensive Player of the Year Myles Garrett to the Los Angeles Rams. The Browns receive pass rusher Jared Verse, the 2024 AP NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year, along with a 2027 first-round pick, a second-round pick in 2028, and a third-round pick in 2029.

Garrett, who was previously a cornerstone of the Browns' defense, expressed a desire for a change after several seasons of underperformance from the team. He had been frustrated with the franchise's direction, and despite signing a four-year contract extension worth $204.8 million last March, he requested a trade at the end of the 2024 season. Cleveland general manager Andrew Berry noted the decision was challenging, stating, "As discussions intensified we were stuck at a legitimate crossroads: do we hold on to a truly generational player... or do we make the difficult decision that we think is best for the organization over the long run?"

Garrett is poised to join his new team as the Rams gear up for the upcoming season, where he will be teamed with reigning MVP Matthew Stafford. The Rams have bolstered their roster significantly, making them one of the early favorites for the upcoming Super Bowl. Owners Dee and Jimmy Haslam remarked that trading Garrett was not their initial intention, but indicated that the potential benefits of acquiring young talent and draft assets were compelling for the team's future.

In his nine years at Cleveland, Garrett recorded 125½ career sacks, making him a prominent figure in the NFL. His move to the Rams marks a new chapter in his career as he aims to contend for a Super Bowl title. Berry expressed confidence in the trade, emphasizing that Verse’s skill set complements the team’s defensive structure and future aspirations.