A Star’s Departure: Myles Garrett Requests Trade from Cleveland Browns
On February 3, 2023, the NFL was rocked by a significant announcement from one of its most elite defensive players. Myles Garrett, the 2023 NFL Defensive Player of the Year, officially requested a trade from the Cleveland Browns. Garrett, a cornerstone of the Browns’ defense, released a statement that sent ripples through the league. The request raises several questions: Will the Browns honor Garrett’s wish? If so, where might he land next?
A Defensive Dynamo’s Journey
Myles Garrett, 29, was the first overall pick in the 2017 NFL Draft and has spent the entirety of his eight-year career in Cleveland. His resume is a testament to his exceptional talent: a four-time first-team All-Pro selection, a six-time Pro Bowler, and the league’s DPOY in 2023. Garrett has consistently delivered, tallying at least 10 sacks in every professional season except his rookie year. He led the league in tackles for loss with 22 this past season and has missed only four games over the last five years.
The Motivation Behind the Move
Despite his individual success, Garrett’s time in Cleveland has been marked by a lack of team achievement. In his eight-year stint, he has played in just three playoff games, with a record of 1-2. The Browns’ inability to field a consistently competitive team has likely been a significant factor in Garrett’s decision to seek a new home. The frustration of not being able to win at the highest level is a common sentiment among elite players, and Garrett is no exception.
The Odds and the Favorites
As of February 17, the odds at DraftKings Sportsbook provide some insight into where Garrett might end up. The Washington Commanders are the frontrunners at +300, followed by the Philadelphia Eagles at +450. The Cleveland Browns, oddly, are at +500, suggesting some uncertainty about whether Garrett will actually leave. Other teams in the running include the Buffalo Bills (+550), Detroit Lions (+650), Chicago Bears (+900), Green Bay Packers (+1200), and Kansas City Chiefs (+1400).
A Winner Awaits?
If the odds are any indication, Garrett is likely to end up with a team that has a strong chance of success. The Philadelphia Eagles, fresh off their Super Bowl LII championship, have seen their odds improve significantly. They are now the best defensive team in the league, allowing fewer than 300 yards per game (278.4) this past regular season. Joining the Eagles would provide Garrett with a robust defense and a shot at playoff success.
The Commanders’ Potential
However, at the top of the board are the Washington Commanders. While their defense was not as dominant as the Eagles’, it still performed respectably, allowing 327.9 yards per game this past season. The Commanders have been showing signs of improvement and could benefit greatly from adding a defensive stalwart like Garrett. The move could elevate them to a more prominent position in the NFC East.
A Future of Possibilities
The future looks bright for Myles Garrett, regardless of his next destination. Whether he ends up with a powerhouse like the Eagles or a rising team like the Commanders, his presence will undoubtedly make an impact. For fans and analysts, the coming weeks and months will be filled with speculation and anticipation as the Browns and interested teams negotiate. One thing is certain: the NFL landscape is about to change, and Myles Garrett will be at the center of it all.
