Browns firm on Myles Garrett, but NFL trade speculation grows

The Cleveland Browns continue to insist they will not trade defensive end Myles Garrett, but growing speculation suggests teams around the league remain unconvinced.

According to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler, some insiders are “sceptical” of Cleveland’s stance, with suggestions that the Browns could capitalise on multiple first-round picks in a potential trade. While teams have inquired about Garrett, Cleveland has reportedly issued an “emphatic” refusal to trade the star defender.

The financial implications of any deal are also significant. Trading Garrett before June 1 would result in a $36.2 million dead-money charge for Cleveland, while a post-June 1 trade would allow the team to spread that hit across two seasons.

Garrett, who requested a trade in February, has shown no willingness to extend his contract with Cleveland. Mary Kay Cabot of Cleveland.com reported that the pass rusher has “slammed the door shut” on extension negotiations.

Despite this, the Browns’ leadership remains steadfast. General manager Andrew Berry stated in January that he would not consider trading Garrett, even for multiple first-round picks. At the NFL Scouting Combine, head coach Kevin Stefanski reiterated that Garrett remains part of the team’s future.

A dominant force in the league, Garrett has recorded double-digit sacks in each of the past seven seasons, including 14 in 2024. His status as a perennial Defensive Player of the Year candidate makes him a highly valuable asset.

While Cleveland continues to resist trade discussions, interest in Garrett remains strong. The Athletic’s Dianna Russini reported that the Philadelphia Eagles’ pursuit of Garrett is “real,” with other teams also monitoring the situation closely.

For now, the Browns are holding firm, but as the offseason progresses, teams will remain on high alert for any shift in Cleveland’s position regarding their star pass rusher.