Toward the end of the season, Myles Garrett raised the possibility of a trade sending him to a Super Bowl contender. The Browns remain insistent they will not consider doing so, but Monday saw the situation escalate with a formal trade request.
Cleveland’s stance on the situation has not changed in the wake of yesterday’s development, although that comes as no surprise since the team was aware of Garrett’s sentiment prior to his request going public. The Browns face a number of challenges this offseason, one in which a shift to a long-term rebuild is not the plan. Even if the team pursues upgrades in the near future (particularly at the quarterback position), though, the 2023 Defensive Player of the Year wants a fresh start.
As a result, attention has increasingly turned to the framework of any potential deal sending Garrett to a new team. General manager Andrew Berry‘s most recent comments on the situation made it clear a package including two first-round picks would not alter the team’s aversion to entertaining a trade. Early estimates on this front show a strong market will nevertheless be in place when suitors call about Garrett’s availability.
A poll of league executives and coaches from The Athletic’s Jeff Howe (subscription required) demonstrates the range of potential hauls the Browns could land in a Garrett deal. Three believe a package including two Day 1 selections could be in play, while there is a consensus that one first-rounder would be a feasible starting point. Pairing a first-round selection with at least one player or mid-round pick emerged as a realistic scenario for most of the respondents.
Two years remain on Garrett’s pact, with none of his outstanding base salary guaranteed. An extension would no doubt change that while tying him to the Browns, but it was reported Monday the former No. 1 pick’s request is not seen as a negotiating ploy. Even if Cleveland were to consider a trade, however, the cap implications would not make a deal easy to work out.
Garrett would account for more than $36MM in dead money if he were to be traded before June 1, adding further to the Browns’ unenviable financial situation. The team is currently over the projected 2025 ceiling, although moves like another Deshaun Watson restructure and releasing right tackle Jack Conklin should achieve cap compliance in the short term. The matter of Garrett’s option bonus money could complicate the timing of a trade, although Over the Cap’s Jason Fitzgerald writes an arrangement could be made for it to be removed from his existing pact to make a trade (and subsequent extension) feasible for an acquiring team.
A trade after June 1 would still create a notable dead money charge but it would produce nearly $5MM in cap saving for the Browns (barring adjustments to his pact in the near future, of course). Garrett’s next team could owe him as little as $14.8MM in cash in 2025 – if his option were to be removed or deferred – and $25MM in 2026. A blockbuster deal to acquire the four-time All-Pro would no doubt include a new contractual commitment, however, and a raise bringing him to or near the top of the edge rusher market would come as no surprise.
With that in mind (along with the fact he is entering his age-30 season), the number of genuine suitors for Garrett may become relatively limited. Waiting until after June 1 – and therefore receiving draft compensation for 2026 rather than this April’s event – could likewise dissuade the Browns from moving forward with a trade. Nevertheless, this situation could make for one of the league’s top offseason storylines if a strong market develops.
Deebo + pick 11 + round 5
Haha.. Deebo is negative value asset.
Never said deebo was a valuable asset
Just a tradeable one.
Think the Browns would accept the PR of a household name coming back in return when they dump their franchise icon Myles
No one wants Deebo and his cap number. He’s a depreciating asset that’s nearing a negative value
His cap number for a trading team would only be 5.2 million since the Niners would be on the hook for rest of it. It would also be a post June 1st transaction if Deebo is moved anywhere.
Deebo is way overvalued financially and as a trade asset after last year
His cap number for a trading team is 5.2 million.
Deebo can’t run a route. His physicality is also not a benefit in AFC North as all of those teams have beaten him up pretty good. He was injured in a Browns game, didn’t do anything vs Ravens, Steelers game think he was okay last time, Bengals think still hurt.
Deebo isn’t even worth a second. Dude is a diva who’s on the injury chart 70% of the year
Niners should ship him off to Dolphins for a pick or two day 3.
Sounds like a good fit for the Browns
Browns will target WRs in draft and keep Jeudy as WR1 unless otherwise. Dolphins have a QB and a stable of RBs if anyone needs a speedy depth piece WR it’s Miami. Odell was a dud and when tyriek or waddle or injured their offensive power suffers mightily
Aside from Deebo’s value issues, Cleveland isn’t taking on a high priced player in a trade.
Exactly though the ick would be the best they would receive. I don’t see either team doing this with the cap implications
Post June 1st trade makes Deebo’s cap number to a taking team down to 5.2 million. Thats not a stretch for a team to take a shot for one year.
Right idea
Wrong WR
Aiyuk and pick 11 would hold more interest to the Browns. And probably help the 49ers cap situation to afford Purdy.
Idk if Browns can absorb Aiyuks contract so some money may need to be reworked.
The Browns can’t take on Aiyuk’s contract.
Aiyuk just got his contract why would browns take that on now in second year of it
Cause Aiyuk and Jeudy give the Browns a better receiver room since Elijah Moore is a free agent.
If you’re trading Garrett and trying to stay competitive adding Aiyuk for your young QB makes more sense than just acquiring draft picks.
But if Browns aren’t interested in competing and going rebuild. Take as many draft picks as you can and no money if possible.
Purdy is about to get paid SOMETHING. Watson has ACL browns need some type of QB. Aiyuk is coming back from injury. There are so many factors this offseason
The Browns *can’t* take on a big salary while dealing Garrett.
In the NFL adding or trading for a player is never impossible. You can somehow someway always make the money work .
It absolutely is sometimes functionally impossible, especially early in contracts with a lot of guaranteed money going to teams that are already well over the cap.
Because 49ers would be responsible for the huge signing bonus and would be way cheaper for them salary cap wise
Aiyuk got damn near everything torn in knee. He is worth nothing at the moment.
Purdy’s contract will be an escalator as the years progress … considering he’s got a year left on his current contract, next year’s cap hit won’t be that much tbh with a new extension since it’ll be spread and how much he gets in guarantees.
Niners can’t part with Aiyuk for another year. The dead hit would kill them.
Everyone’s ripping you apart here but I actually think this move isn’t bad. Like you said from a PR standpoint the Browns HAVE to get someone back to sell jerseys and mitigate the reaction. He’s also potentially washed but that makes him a tradeable piece – and potential bounce back. Plus – Garrett said he wants out – chances are that beats down the price already.
Maybe DK or Lockett from SEA fits the $$ part of the deal better?
Ya I think people are misinterpreting Deebo as a major asset , as if I didn’t list him next to Pick 11
While not super promising, I do think Deebo is still an interesting fit on the Browns next to Jeudy
It’s missing the point of why would a team with major cap issues take on the contract of Deebo versus trading for multiple picks/cheaper players
Because I wouldn’t give up pick 11 without them taking Deebo
And Browns can potentially get Ward around 11
I don’t see another fit for an offer where they’d get a higher pick
Browns are the last team to be moving back 11. Makes me wonder how these GMs and scouts make so much money lmao
It’s not moving back .
They keep their 2nd overall pick
And also get pick 11 for Myles Garrett
But 49ers might not be willing to give up such a high pick unless CLE helps them with their overpaid WR
So they just paid Aiyuk and are about to pay Purdy give up a draft pick for garret and pay his remaining contract AND THEN……? Doesn’t sound like John lynch at all
And then what?
They’ll be loaded
My comments I was think Lockett. Hate to lose him but we don’t have the cap space to keep him and we have too many targets to get them all the ball. I love our RB situation except for the injuries. K9 just can’t stay healthy. Him and Charbenou make a great tandem. The problem is money again. There isn’t a ton there to bring on an expensive RB. If K9 could stay healthy I would never have even considered this if he could stay on the field.
I think Browns need to figure out before FA. Hendrickson did lead the league in sacks and is a fa. Whoever signs him is one less bidder. If Crosby is available which I doubt with Brady but if then that is another big target that may take bidders away.
I have them drafting Abdul Carter at 2
Hendrickson isnt a free agent. He’s signed for 2025.
Correct, I still think his prior trade stance applies. They are not getting another year of Chase without a new deal.
To Browns: 2025 1st, 2026 third and AJ Epenensa.
To Bills: Garrett and a 2025 5th.
Idk – that feels close. Im not surprised if it goes higher to someone else.
He will fetch multiple firsts at as a starting point not a singular late first
@AJ From the article above:
“Pairing a first-round selection with at least one player or mid-round pick emerged as a realistic scenario for most of the respondents.”
@Bills1 Find a way to get Elam in there, even as a hand out. Guy doesn’t fit the system.
Done!
Elam for a subway token!
There are not subway in Buffalo but whatever.
He was so bad vs KC I think it has to be the end.
He’s a 30 year old edge rusher who’s going to want top of the market value in a contract. That’s not worth two firsts; it’s worth 1 first, and other stuff.
I believe it will go a lot higher than that based on the level of interest there will be, if he is dealt. The Bills draft too late in the first to not have to throw in an additional 1st round selection.
The Packers have a great chance to offer either picks only, or picks plus Lukas Van Ness who could serve as a replacement for Garrett while on a rookie deal.
A first this year, Van Ness, and some sort of non-first pick next year would be an easy deal to make.
If they would take Jaire that be cool too
No reason to send Jaire. CB depth is too thin as it is. When healthy and properly coached he is a top 5 corner.
Jaire is getting cut.
It’ll be a mistake.
I’m waiting for the next domino. Who’s the next Brown to demand out? Management is just so god awful there. From the top down. I would be forcing my hand the second the opportunity opened up.
Browns should lean into a rebuild and trade the concussed Ward while he still has some value too.
Yes!
I’ve seen the movie “Draft Day” and they looked like decent enough folks to me.
This is the miracle the Browns need in order to get out of the Watson hole they created. They can recoup some first round picks and try to reset the franchise…again.
Their miracle is losing their best player?
Yes. How were they ever going to recoup the value lost in the Watson trade. It is a miracle that a team this bad has an asset capable of recapturing some of the draft capital they wasted on a super creep that also sucks at football.
Waiting to see what kind of offer the Dodgers make 🙂
I’m hearing they are trading their 55th ranked prospect for Garett and signing him to a 40 year, $3 billion extension.
I’m hearing most of that sum is being deferred until 2090, though.
Stick to your day job comedy isn’t for you
Offer Garrett AND Watson for a late pick. Tie them together and use Garrett to get outta the dead weight of the Watson contract.
Garrett plus a 1st round pick wouldn’t be enough for any team to take on Watson. His contract + his baggage is too much for any team to even consider. I can’t think of a player in NFL history with more negative value that wasn’t incarcerated.
The only player more untradeable in NFL history is Rae Carruth. And Carruth was cheaper since he was on his rookie deal, at least until 18 months later when the truth came out and the world never saw him again
Unfortunately, the Browns would get something like a $100m dead cap hit if they traded Watson.
Worth it.
If the Browns are smart they move Garrett now for a haul. Don’t be like the Panthers who turned down multiple first round picks for Brian Burns only to lose him later for a much lesser return.
Lions send 2025 first, 2026 second, and Derrick Barnes.
Barnes is a free agent.
Ugh. I’m an idiot lol
Doesn’t seem like a Brad Holmes move to me. I think he would sooner draft a DE at 28 with the rookie scale contract than pay a premium with draft picks + absorb the salary for Garrett.
Am I the only one who thinks it’s crazy to be shipping first round picks+ for 2 years of Myles Garret at $20Mish/year? I’d much rather keep my picks and draft one of the several promising edge prospects in this draft and pay them $2M-$5m for the next several years.
As a bears fan I’m not excited about trading away multiple picks in Ben Johnson’s first draft with the Bears for 2 years of Garrett.
Bears aren’t the right fit.
But if you’re a true contender maybe an elite edge away like Detroit or maybe Buffalo or GB (and yes each one of those is debatable)? Sure, go ahead.
Prospects are cheap but they are still Prospects. Myles is a top 3 player at his position and still under the age of 30.
You’re not crazy. Garrett isn’t worth 2 1sts at his age and injury history. He played 2024 hurt in some form or fashion. This is another Von Miller situation.
What teams?
The Browns are in the crapper on the cap (only New Orleans is in worse shape for next year). A trade before June 1st just adds to the cap number for the Browns. He might want out, but the cap issues make it unlikely they trade him before that. Sure, releasing players, restructuring contracts helps, but you are just pushing the mess into future years.
The City of Dallas offers: Jerry Jones+Stephen Jones+Nico Harrison.
Get Garrett in red and gold. Send Bosa back to Ohio.
I think Washington will be in on this.
What about the tackle they said might be released? How good is he? Would he be someone Seattle might want to sign? Him or Lucas could move to a G spot. Lucas isn’t awful but seems to be injury prone. Didn’t seem like he was healthy when he came back. This would let them grab an edge rusher in the first and not an OL. I am still a believer in trading some picks for next year. That way they can trade picks to get a QB. Manning if he comes out. Might want to stay and have 2 years of starting. With the NIL money coming out early is not that big of a draw. Heck Texas players will be driving Lambo’s this year. Not sure how many just read they have an agreement with a dealer there. This doesn’t sound like a good idea. Give a 19 yo kid a fast car who might have never driven before or has driven a car older than him. These kids that come from poor homes probably have never smelled a new car. What are they going to do for the lineman? Those guys are never going to fit. I am 6’5” and tried to get in once. I was 250lbs at the time and in pretty good shape. It was hard getting in and horrible getting out. These 6’7” monsters will never fit. Anyway this sounds like a horrible idea. I know I would open it up see what it could do. Maybe they have governers on them but doubt it.
Conklin is good, but he’s missed 21 games in the last two years alone. Doubt Seattle is itching for a RT who can’t stay on the field.
Jimmy Haslam, Andrew Berry, and Paul DePodesta ruined our team. The hate for them approaches the level of hate for what Art Modell did.
Along with trading Garrett, Browns need to make trade with Raiders to move down from 2nd to 6th. Let Raiders have Sanders and add additional picks. Load up on draft picks to build a strong roster at inexpensive cost to provide a window of opportunity. Rest of AFC North teams are good now, there to four yrs from now the division will look totally different
His trade request does not equal a team financial reality. The team doesn’t need to do anything till after June 1. He’s on contract.
Eagles Harry Roseman will be involved in these trade talks. With Brandon Graham retiring and Josh Sweat headed to FA. The birds will definitely be adding an edge rusher this off season.