Myles Garrett’s future with the Cleveland Browns has become a hot topic as the team recently modified his contract, pushing some payments into the future. This change has significant implications for potential trades, with the Browns now facing a $41.09 million dead cap hit if they decide to trade Garrett before June 1, down from a staggering $70.3 million.
Garrett, who won the NFL Defensive Player of the Year award after an impressive season in which he set a record with 23 sacks, was initially set to receive a $16.5 million option bonus on March 25. However, this has now been postponed to just seven days before the first regular-season game, allowing the Browns to manage their cap space more effectively.
The Browns currently have $9 million in effective cap space left after the contract modification, which has opened the door for trade discussions. Potential landing spots for Garrett include the San Francisco 49ers, Philadelphia Eagles, Dallas Cowboys, New England Patriots, and Buffalo Bills.
Interestingly, the Cowboys have reportedly offered a trade package that includes a 2026 first-round pick and a 2027 second-round pick. This could be appealing to the Browns, especially if they are looking to rebuild or enhance their roster for the future.
Garrett’s contract also includes a no-trade clause, meaning he would need to approve any trade, adding another layer of complexity to the situation. Observers recall that Garrett had previously requested a trade out of Cleveland but ultimately decided to stay after signing a massive four-year, $160 million extension.
The Browns have also proposed a rule change that would allow teams to trade draft picks up to five years into the future, which could further influence negotiations around Garrett.
As the season approaches, Garrett will now wait until right before it begins to receive his option bonus. This timing could play a crucial role in any potential trade discussions.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the exact implications of the contract modification on Garrett’s future with the Browns, and whether the team will actually trade him remains uncertain.
