The Cleveland Browns are in an awkward position as a franchise. Cleveland is searching for a new quarterback to replace their controversial starter and his massive guaranteed contract. The Browns are also feuding with superstar pass rusher Myles Garrett. Their relationship appears to be breaking down.
Browns edge rusher Myles Garrett recently requested a meeting with team owner Jimmy Haslam, per NFL Network's Tom Pelissero. Haslam declined to speak with Garrett because of his recent trade request.
Garrett made it clear since the end of the 2024 season that he would like to play elsewhere. Haslam's refusal to meet with Garrett suggests the Browns organization is aligned on their offseason plan, which includes keeping Garrett in Cleveland.
It appears that both sides are unwilling to budge from their current positions. Garrett wants to be traded, but the Browns will not entertain trade talks.
It is surprising to see the Browns stay so committed to keeping Garrett. He is 29 years old and still has some years of excellent production left in him. However, the Browns are nowhere near becoming a competitive team because of their quarterback situation.
Perhaps the Browns simply cannot see themselves parting with one of their franchise greats. Garrett has logged 12+ sacks in every season going back to 2020. That's the kind of production a team can't let walk out the door.
Browns' Kevin Stefanski also had stern stance on Myles Garrett's trade request
The Browns are showing a united front on the Myles Garrett trade request situation.
Before Haslam's recent news, Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski was asked to weigh in on the situation. He shared his thoughts on the situation last week at the NFL Combine.
“I think the world of Myles (Garrett),” said Stefanski, per Mike Garafolo of the NFL Network on X, formerly Twitter.
Stefanski explained that he understands that there is a business aspect to football. However, he made it clear that he “[expects] Myles on our team this year, the year after that and the year after that. He’s a part of our present and a part of our future.”
Stefanski was clearly trying to be diplomatic with his recent comments. Head coaches usually want to do right by their players, but Stefanski seems to understand that this situation is something he cannot fix by himself.
Regardless, it seems clear that the entire Browns organization is unwilling to entertain the idea of losing superstar Myles Garrett.
If the situation does not resolve itself before the summer, Garrett may be forced to hold out during training camp.
