Myles Garrett Trade Rumors Gain Momentum
As the Cleveland Browns grapple with a dismal start to their season, the prospect of Myles Garrett waiving his no-trade clause looms larger. Just months after securing a lucrative extension, the six-time Pro Bowler may be considering a fresh start amid the turmoil of a 1-5 record.
Garrett’s Frustration with the Browns
Earlier this year, Garrett made headlines when he openly expressed his desire to leave Cleveland. The former No. 1 overall pick in the 2017 NFL Draft voiced his aspirations to compete for a Super Bowl, stating that his ultimate goal was never about achieving individual accolades in his hometown but rather about winning championships. Unfortunately, with the Browns struggling mightily this season, those aspirations seem increasingly out of reach.
As the team leans on a rookie quarterback, the path to competitiveness could extend beyond the immediate future. Garrett, nearing 30, still possesses elite skills but is aware that time is not on his side. For a player of his caliber, the prospect of a Super Bowl may necessitate a change of scenery.
Potential Suitors: The Dallas Cowboys
In considering potential landing spots, the Dallas Cowboys stand out as a feasible option for both Garrett and the Browns. Earlier this season, Dallas engaged in a surprising trade, sending franchise cornerstone Micah Parsons to the Green Bay Packers for two first-round picks and Pro Bowl defensive tackle Kenny Clark. While that trade was rooted in contract disputes, Garrett’s situation is different; he recently signed a four-year, $160 million contract, alleviating concerns for the Cowboys regarding long-term commitments.
To acquire Garrett, Dallas would likely need to part with three first-round picks. They currently hold two first-round selections in the upcoming draft, making the decision to trade one more palatable. The potential addition of a transformative player like Garrett could justify the cost as they aim to bolster their defense.
Addressing Cleveland’s Needs
In addition to draft picks, the Browns would probably seek a veteran presence on their defensive line to mitigate the loss of Garrett. Options such as edge rusher James Houston or defensive tackle Solomon Thomas could serve as suitable placeholders during this transitional phase. This would enable Cleveland to pivot towards a rebuild while injecting youth into their roster.
The current trajectory of the Browns does not align with Garrett’s ambitions. Trading him for significant draft capital could pave the way for a promising future, especially as the team’s outlook remains bleak.
Garrett’s Performance Amid Struggles
Despite the Browns’ struggles, Garrett has maintained an impressive individual performance. In six games this season, he has recorded 23 total tackles, including eight tackles for loss and four sacks, along with eight quarterback hits. His elite play continues to shine, week after week, underscoring his value to any team looking to contend.
However, if Garrett’s ultimate goal is to secure a Super Bowl victory, a trade may be the most viable option. The Cowboys, currently with a record of 2-3-1, possess a potent offense led by Dak Prescott, who is in the MVP conversation this year. Yet, the defense has been a liability, allowing an average of 30.6 points per game. Garrett’s arrival could provide the jolt needed to transform a struggling defense into a formidable unit.
The Dilemma of the No-Trade Clause
For a trade to materialize, Garrett would need to consider waiving his no-trade clause. The decision hangs in the balance, as he weighs the opportunity for a fresh start against his longstanding ties to the Browns. With Cleveland’s prospects dimming, the question remains: will Garrett seek a new chapter in Dallas, or continue his journey with the team that drafted him? If the Browns’ struggles persist, we may soon find out if he opts for a change.
