Myles Garrett’s future with the Cleveland Browns is increasingly uncertain as the team has modified his contract, pushing some payments into the future. This change significantly reduces the dead cap hit from $70.3 million to $41.09 million if the Browns decide to trade him before June 1.
Garrett, who won the NFL Defensive Player of the Year after an impressive season with 23 sacks, was originally set to receive a $16.5 million option bonus on March 25. However, this has now been postponed until seven days before the first regular-season game, adding to the speculation surrounding his status.
The Browns have also proposed a rule change that would allow trading draft picks up to five years into the future, potentially making a trade more appealing. Observers note that the Dallas Cowboys have reportedly offered a trade package that includes a 2026 first-round pick and a 2027 second-round pick.
Potential landing spots for Garrett include the San Francisco 49ers, Philadelphia Eagles, and Buffalo Bills, among others. The Los Angeles Rams are also considered a contender due to their current Super Bowl window.
Garrett holds a no-trade clause in his contract, meaning he must approve any trade, complicating negotiations. Last year, he requested a trade out of Cleveland but ultimately stayed after signing a massive four-year, $160 million extension.
Currently, the Browns have $9 million in effective cap space left following the contract modification, which may influence their decision-making process regarding Garrett.
As the NFL season approaches, Garrett will now wait until just before the season begins to receive his option bonus. Details remain unconfirmed regarding the exact implications of the contract modification on his future with the Browns and whether a trade will actually occur.
