Cleveland Browns star edge rusher Myles Garrett has requested a trade, expressing frustration with the team’s lack of success. The 29-year-old, one of the NFL’s top defenders, posted on social media that he wants to join a team with a better chance of winning a Super Bowl. Garrett finished second in sacks (14.5) and sixth in pass rush win rate (21.5%) this season. Given his talent and premium position, teams would likely offer multiple first-round picks or a combination of premium selections and a young star on a rookie deal.
Could Garrett’s Contract Prevent a Deal?
Trading Garrett presents significant financial challenges for Cleveland. Due to past contract restructures, the Browns would face a $36 million dead cap hit in 2025. Unlike a post-June 1 release, there is no designation to spread the cap hit over two years in a trade. If the Browns wanted to mitigate the financial impact, they would need to wait until after June 1 to execute the deal.
The acquiring team, however, would have an easier time managing the financials. Garrett is owed just under $20 million in 2025 and $25 million in 2026, but any team trading for him would likely need to extend his contract to make the move feasible.
Best Fits for Garrett
Detroit Lions
The Lions, coming off a 15-2 regular season before a disappointing playoff exit, are in win-now mode. They have the cap space to take on Garrett’s contract and desperately need pass-rush help after tying for 23rd in sacks (37). Although Detroit is somewhat limited in draft capital due to prior trades, they still hold their first- and second-round picks for the next two years and could make a compelling offer.
Philadelphia Eagles
A Super Bowl contender this season, the Eagles have a history of aggressive roster moves under GM Howie Roseman. If they lose to the Chiefs—especially due to an inability to pressure Patrick Mahomes—they might pursue Garrett as a major defensive upgrade. Philadelphia would need to restructure contracts to create cap space, but with Josh Sweat entering free agency, adding a dominant edge rusher would be a logical move.
Atlanta Falcons
With a young quarterback on a rookie contract, the Falcons have financial flexibility to make a splashy acquisition. Their defense struggled this season, ranking 31st in sacks (31) and 30th in pressure rate (26.9%). Landing Garrett could help them turn into serious contenders. While their division rivals, the Carolina Panthers, share a similar need, Garrett would likely prefer a team with a clearer path to the Super Bowl.
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Washington Commanders
After a surprise run to the NFC Championship Game with rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels, the Commanders may look to maximize their window. Washington needs major defensive upgrades, and adding Garrett would be a franchise-altering move. The Houston Texans took a similar approach last year after C.J. Stroud’s breakout rookie season, showing how teams can capitalize on young quarterback success by aggressively adding talent.
Any AFC Contender
The Browns would likely prefer to trade Garrett to an NFC team, but that doesn’t mean AFC contenders won’t try to make a deal. The Kansas City Chiefs, Buffalo Bills, and Texans could all be interested, though Cleveland might demand a higher price from conference rivals. While the Baltimore Ravens and Cincinnati Bengals would be logical suitors, trading Garrett within the AFC North seems highly unlikely.
Garrett’s trade request has sent shockwaves through the league. Whether the Browns ultimately move him remains to be seen, but if they do, teams across the NFL will be lining up with offers.
