Cleveland Browns Secure Myles Garrett with Historic $160 Million Extension
CLEVELAND, OHIO – March 9, 2025 – The Cleveland Browns have officially secured the future of their defense by signing superstar defensive end Myles Garrett to a record-breaking four-year contract extension worth $160 million, averaging $40 million per season with $123.5 million guaranteed. This makes Garrett the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history, surpassing recent deals signed by other defensive stars.
The deal, which includes a no-trade clause, ensures that Garrett will remain the face of the Browns’ defense through the 2030 NFL season, ending months of speculation about his future with the team. This move signals Cleveland’s commitment to building around their generational pass rusher, even after a disappointing 3-14 season that fueled trade rumors.
A Franchise-Altering Deal
Garrett’s contract extension is a testament to his dominance on the field and his unparalleled impact on Cleveland’s defense. The $40 million annual salary surpasses the contracts of other elite defensive players like Maxx Crosby ($35.5M per year) and T.J. Watt ($31.2M per year), setting a new market standard.
Contract Breakdown:
Total Value: $160 million over four years
Average Annual Salary: $40 million
Guaranteed Money: $123.5 million
Contract Length: 2025–2030 season
No-Trade Clause: Yes
The extension came after weeks of speculation that Garrett could force his way out of Cleveland following a frustrating 2024 season. In early February, he reportedly requested a trade, citing his desire to play for a Super Bowl contender. However, Browns ownership remained firm in their stance that Garrett was “untouchable” in trade talks, leading to negotiations on an extension that would reaffirm his commitment to the franchise.
Garrett’s Path to Becoming an NFL Defensive Icon
Since being selected as the first overall pick in the 2017 NFL Draft, Garrett has consistently established himself as one of the most dominant defenders in the league. His combination of speed, power, and technique has made him an unstoppable force off the edge, earning him multiple All-Pro selections, Pro Bowl honors, and the 2023 NFL Defensive Player of the Year award.
Garrett’s Career Achievements:
102.5 career sacks (as of the 2024 season)
Six-time Pro Bowl selection
Four-time First-Team All-Pro
NFL Defensive Player of the Year (2023)
Led Browns to multiple playoff appearances
Team captain and defensive leader
In the 2024 season, despite Cleveland’s struggles, Garrett continued to shine, recording:
14.0 sacks
47 tackles
Three forced fumbles
25 QB hits
Despite his elite production, the Browns’ defensive unit ranked 27th overall, exposing weaknesses in the supporting cast around Garrett. This contributed to the team’s downward spiral, resulting in their worst record in over a decade.
From Trade Request to a Record-Breaking Deal
In early 2025, Garrett’s frustration reached a boiling point. Following the Browns’ 3-14 finish, he reportedly requested a meeting with team owner Jimmy Haslam to discuss a potential trade to a contender. Haslam, however, declined the meeting, instead directing Garrett to GM Andrew Berry and head coach Kevin Stefanski.
Sources indicate that Garrett was interested in teams with Super Bowl aspirations, including the San Francisco 49ers, Dallas Cowboys, and Kansas City Chiefs. However, the Browns never entertained serious trade talks, believing that keeping Garrett was essential to their long-term success.
Despite initial tension, negotiations progressed, with both sides agreeing that Cleveland would remain Garrett’s long-term home—if the deal was right. By early March, the two sides finalized a historic extension that not only kept Garrett in Cleveland but reset the market for defensive players.
Browns’ Future Plans: A Turning Point for the Franchise?
Locking in Myles Garrett was the first step in what is expected to be a pivotal offseason for the Browns. The team is now focused on rebuilding its roster to return to playoff contention, starting with the 2025 NFL Draft.
Key Offseason Questions:
1. Quarterback Uncertainty:
Deshaun Watson is recovering from multiple Achilles surgeries, raising concerns about his long-term viability as a starter.
Jameis Winston, who played in relief of Watson, is likely to depart in free agency.
The Browns hold the No. 2 overall pick and are strongly considering drafting a quarterback.
2. Drafting a Defensive Partner for Garrett?
While the Browns secured Garrett, they still lack a complementary pass rusher.
They could target Penn State’s Abdul Carter or Florida State’s Jared Verse in the draft to solidify their defensive front.
3. Offensive Line and Playmaker Additions
With Nick Chubb’s health in question and Amari Cooper aging, the Browns must invest in offensive talent to avoid wasting Garrett’s prime.
With their defensive cornerstone locked in, Cleveland must now build a championship-caliber roster around him to justify their investment.
NFL Reactions: Praise and Debate Over Garrett’s Extension
As expected, Garrett’s extension has sparked massive reactions across the NFL community. Fans and analysts praised the Browns for keeping their best player, but others questioned whether investing $40 million per year in a non-quarterback was the right decision.
What NFL Analysts Are Saying:
Adam Schefter (ESPN):
“The Browns had no choice but to extend Garrett. He’s a once-in-a-generation talent, and losing him would’ve set the franchise back years.”
Skip Bayless (FS1):
“Great player, but paying a DE quarterback money? Cleveland still has no direction at QB. That’s a problem.”
Pat McAfee (The Pat McAfee Show):
“Myles Garrett DESERVES every penny. He’s an absolute game-changer. But man, the Browns still have a lot of holes to fill.”
Stephen A. Smith (ESPN First Take):
“This deal proves Cleveland is committed to winning, but without a real quarterback, Garrett can’t win alone.”
Fan Reactions on Social Media:
@DawgPoundLegend: “FINALLY! Myles Garrett is a Brown for LIFE! Now get him some help!!!”
@NFLInsiderJoe: “40 million per year?! Even Aaron Donald didn’t get that. Browns better hope Garrett stays elite for years.”
@SuperBowlBound49: “If Myles Garrett wanted to win, he should’ve gone to the 49ers. Guess money talks.”
What This Means for the Future of NFL Contracts
Garrett’s extension has set a new financial precedent for defensive players. With pass rushers becoming as valuable as elite quarterbacks, teams are now forced to spend record amounts to retain defensive superstars.
Could Other Defensive Stars Cash In Next?
Micah Parsons (Cowboys): Likely to demand over $42M per year in his upcoming extension.
Nick Bosa (49ers): Could renegotiate his deal after seeing Garrett’s numbers.
T.J. Watt (Steelers): May seek a new deal after being surpassed by Garrett’s contract.
As the salary cap continues to rise, it’s clear that defensive playmakers are becoming just as expensive as offensive superstars.
Conclusion: A Gamble or a Masterstroke?
Myles Garrett’s historic contract extension ensures that he remains the face of the Cleveland Browns for the foreseeable future. While some question the investment, there’s no doubt that Garrett is a generational talent worth every penny.
Now, the pressure is on Cleveland’s front office to surround him with the right pieces to build a legitimate championship contender. With a critical draft ahead and major roster questions still unanswered, the Browns have taken a massive step forward—but the real work is just beginning.
Final Thoughts:
Will Myles Garrett’s record-breaking deal lead the Browns to a Super Bowl, or will it become another cautionary tale of overpaying for one player? Only time will tell.
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