Will Myles Garrett end up as a Commander before the 2025 season
Defensive end Myles Garrett sent shockwaves throughout the league when he requested a trade to his current team, the Cleveland Browns. Garrett reached this decision primarily because he felt the Browns are not in a winning position and that is what the 29-year-old is looking forward to the most at this stage of his career.
Garrett, who has been with the Browns ever since they drafted him in 2017 has been their best player, especially on defense. The 2023 NFL Defensive Player of the Year already has over 100 sacks in his career. In fact, the destructive defender has put up double-digit sacks every year barring his rookie season when he finished with 7 from 9 starts. Thus, losing the 6-time Pro Bowler would be a huge loss for Cleveland.
The Browns have made it clear that they are not interested in trading their superstar, however, this may be the perfect time for them to get back a lot of draft capital if they are willing to consider it. With Garrett still at his peak and just a year under 30, the Browns could risk losing him for much less if they decide to keep him.
This is one deal that will not be easy to pull off. Given that Cleveland’s General manager, Andrew Berry has been quite vocal in his reluctance to move on from Garrett. However, should the Browns even entertain such a possibility, here are the teams with the best chance to snatch a game-wrecker.
The Washington Commanders are currently in pole position to acquire Garrett from Cleveland. They have a very healthy cap situation as it stands with nearly $75 million under the limit. The Commanders also have ample draft picks and are in a favorable place to strike a deal with Cleveland.
Washington just put together one of the best seasons in a long time riding behind the genius offensive display shown by rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels. Having reached the NFC Championship game, the Commanders could provide Garrett with a great opportunity to play in regular postseason games as they continue to develop their game with Daniels under center. Of course, Washington would require more weapons on the offense for Daniels to play up to his potential, but acquiring Garrett will no doubt be a much-needed boost to their defense.
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Just the thought of Garrett joining the already dominant Philadelphia Eagles’ roster would send chills down the spine of other teams. With their Super Bowl LIX win over the Chiefs still fresh in the mind, we got to witness a ferocious Philly pass rush, and adding Garrett to that equation would be a scarier prospect.
Josh Sweat, Milton Williams, and Brandon Graham are all free agents this year and all of them were a big part of Philadelphia’s success on defense. Should these players leave, it would make all the more sense for the Eagles to go after Garrett. However, in doing so, general manager Howie Roseman would have to make significant changes as the Eagles are just $18 million above the cap at the moment.
Another potential good fit for Garrett could be the Detroit Lions who have put together a couple of strong seasons recently. The Lions’ offense was a key factor in their success last season constantly lighting up the scoreboard. However, what they missed was the pass rush ability of Aidan Hutchinson who was out injured for much of the season. Teaming Hutchinson up with Garrett would instantly elevate the Lions’ defensive line and Detroit would boast of a solid pass-rush duo making them all the more difficult to deal with.
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The Buffalo Bills have been making the playoffs year in and year out but haven’t been able to make it to the Super Bowl. For the most part, the Kansas City Chiefs have been the reason they have fallen short of their destination. For Buffalo to go further, adding someone such as Garrett could be the final piece of the puzzle.
The Bills, however, are around $14 million over the cap and will have to make several key changes to free up the money if they would like to pursue a deal. Letting go of Von Miller could be a step in that direction given that Miller will be turning 36 years old very soon.
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