Myles Garrett’s future with the Cleveland Browns is increasingly uncertain as trade rumors swirl following a significant modification to his contract. Originally, the Browns faced a staggering $70.3 million dead cap hit if they traded Garrett before June 1. However, with the recent changes, that figure has been reduced to $41.09 million, making a potential trade more feasible.
Garrett, who won the NFL Defensive Player of the Year after setting a single-season record with 23 sacks, was set to receive a $16.5 million option bonus on March 25. This payment has now been postponed to seven days before the first regular-season game, further complicating his situation.
The Browns’ decision to modify Garrett’s contract appears strategic, possibly to facilitate a trade while maintaining some financial flexibility. Currently, the team has $9 million in effective cap space left after the contract modification, which could influence their decision-making process.
Potential landing spots for Garrett include high-profile teams such as the San Francisco 49ers, Philadelphia Eagles, Dallas Cowboys, New England Patriots, and Buffalo Bills. The Cowboys have reportedly offered a trade package that includes a 2026 first-round pick and a 2027 second-round pick, indicating serious interest in acquiring the defensive star.
Garrett’s no-trade clause adds another layer of complexity, as he would need to approve any trade. Despite having requested a trade out of Cleveland last year, he ultimately chose to stay after signing a massive four-year, $160 million extension.
The Browns have also proposed a rule change that would allow trading draft picks up to five years into the future, which could make a trade for Garrett more attractive to potential suitors. This flexibility may enable teams to structure deals that spread out the draft capital required over several years.
As the NFL season approaches, the clock is ticking for the Browns to make a decision regarding Garrett’s future. Observers are keenly watching how this situation unfolds, especially with the looming deadline for his option bonuses.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the exact implications of the contract modification on Garrett’s future with the Browns and whether the team will ultimately decide to trade him.
