Myles Garrett has made it clear: the Cleveland Browns need a structured and immediate plan to build a winning team, or his future with the franchise could be in doubt. As one of the NFL’s premier pass-rushers and a cornerstone of the Browns’ roster since being drafted first overall in 2017, Garrett has delivered consistently on the field despite the team’s struggles.
In a brutally honest interview, Garrett emphasized his desire to win now, rejecting any notions of a rebuild. He called on the Browns to provide clarity and a vision that aligns with his ambitions for success. The Browns’ 3-11 record and significant regression in defensive performance (dropping from second to 21st in DVOA this season) have frustrated Garrett, especially given his individual excellence—leading the league with 70 total pressures this season.
The Browns’ mismanagement has compounded the issues. Trading away Za’Darius Smith left Garrett as the lone elite pass-rusher, forcing him to carry an even heavier burden. Meanwhile, the disastrous trade for quarterback Deshaun Watson, along with his fully guaranteed $230 million contract, has handicapped the team’s cap flexibility. Watson’s injury and poor performance have left the Browns in a quarterback crisis, with second-year player Dorian Thompson-Robinson now getting his shot.
As Garrett approaches his 29th birthday, he’s entering the latter stages of his prime years, making it crucial for the Browns to act quickly if they hope to retain him and capitalize on his talents. Without a clear and actionable plan, the team risks alienating not just Garrett but other key players as well.
If the Browns fail to address these concerns and deliver a competitive roster, they could face the unthinkable scenario of losing their defensive superstar. For Cleveland, the clock is ticking—and Garrett has made it clear that their response will define the team’s direction for years to come.
