Cleveland Browns defensive end Myles Garrett could be traded despite repeated team denials, as his contract structure presents minimal obstacles for acquiring teams. Sources indicate the 2023 Defensive Player of the Year expressed desire to leave Cleveland during Super Bowl week in February, citing frustration with losing.
The Browns have consistently stated they will not trade Garrett, who signed a lucrative extension last spring. However, Cleveland\'s 3-9 record has done nothing to address the losing environment that prompted Garrett\'s public complaints during extensive media appearances in February.
An acquiring team would owe Garrett approximately $62 million in guaranteed money over the next two years. That figure represents strong value if the pass rusher maintains his elite level of play. The Browns would absorb roughly $41 million in dead cap charges in any trade scenario.
Cleveland\'s dead money hit would equal about half the charges Denver incurred when cutting Russell Wilson. The Broncos have posted a 20-10 record since absorbing that financial penalty, demonstrating teams can overcome significant cap consequences.
Garrett sits 3.5 sacks behind the single-season record of 19 with five games remaining. He has established himself as arguably the NFL\'s premier player this season. Despite his individual excellence, Garrett\'s teams have compiled a 56-87-1 record over nine seasons with just two playoff appearances.
The situation mirrors defensive end Micah Parsons\' recent public expressions of discontent. If Garrett adopts a similar approach this offseason, the Browns could face pressure to reconsider their stance. The contract structure would not prevent Cleveland from accommodating a trade request should circumstances change.