Myles Garrett Signs Groundbreaking Contract Extension with the Cleveland Browns
In a historic move, the Cleveland Browns have finalized a contract extension with defensive end Myles Garrett, solidifying his position as the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history. The deal averages $40 million per year and features an impressive $123.5 million in guaranteed money.
Details of the Extension
The four-year extension will keep Garrett with the Browns through the 2030 season. While the team announced the extension publicly, they did not reveal specific financial details.
Negotiations were led by Garrett’s agent, Nicole Lynn from Klutch Sports, alongside Browns general manager Andrew Berry. This agreement marks the end of a recent trade request standoff initiated by Garrett himself, who expressed dissatisfaction with the direction of the franchise.
Standoff and Resolution
Garrett’s frustrations came to a head as he officially announced his desire to be traded out of Cleveland on February 3, citing his goal to compete for a Super Bowl—a sentiment he reinforced in multiple statements. Compounding this situation, Browns owner Jimmy Haslam declined to meet with Garrett regarding his trade request, instead directing him back to Berry.
Ultimately, both Garrett and the Browns maintained firm positions; the player sought a chance to join a winning team, while the franchise was resolute in their commitment to keep him.
Contract Highlights
In addition to the staggering financial terms, Garrett’s new contract includes a no-trade clause. This deal effectively reignites the trajectory towards his Hall of Fame aspirations, a journey he dubbed “Cleveland to Canton.”
A Record-Breaking Shift in NFL Contracts
Garrett’s contract surpasses the three-year, $106.5 million extension recently signed by Maxx Crosby of the Las Vegas Raiders, which had briefly positioned him as the highest-paid non-quarterback prior to Garrett’s new deal.
Last season, Garrett became the first player since the NFL began officially tracking sacks in 1982 to reach 100 career sacks before turning 29. He was also honored as the AP Defensive Player of the Year for the 2023 season and finished the 2024 campaign with 14 sacks, ranking him second in the league.
Career Achievements
Selected first overall by the Browns in the 2017 NFL Draft, Garrett has proven to be a formidable force on the field. His career total of 102.5 sacks narrowly trails behind only T.J. Watt of the Pittsburgh Steelers, who has 108 career sacks.
This record-breaking extension positions Garrett not only for financial success but also for potential future accolades as he continues to build his legacy in the NFL.