Cleveland Browns superstar Myles Garrett recently requested a trade from the team, sending shockwaves throughout the organization.
The trade request comes after an abysmal three-win season filled with turmoil and chaos, with four different quarterbacks starting games. The Browns may have been the most unstable team in football this season, possibly a tipping point for Garrett.
Denzel Ward Says the Browns Need Myles Garrett
Browns star cornerback Denzel Ward recently spoke about Garrett’s trade request news.
When asked if he wants Garrett back, Ward told PFSN: “Of course. Of course! Hall of Fame player. We need Myles Garrett on the team.”
It is a no-brainer that Ward believes the Browns need Garrett not only on the field wreaking havoc on opposing quarterbacks, but also as a leader in the locker room.
The four-time All-Pro and former Defensive Player of the Year is coming off another fantastic season. In 2024, Garrett recorded 14 sacks and was the NFL’s leader in tackles for loss with a staggering 22, which was also a career high.
While the Browns’ front office has said they have no intentions of moving the star defensive end, teams are lining up at the chance to bring in a one-of-a-kind player. If the Browns lose Garrett, Browns fans could be in store for the dark ages all over again.
Did Ward Take a Shot at Watson?
Ward had some interesting remarks when asked about the team’s offseason needs. “I think we’ve got to solidify the quarterback position and continue to bring guys in at other positions as well. But we’re close, man. We’re gonna to get it done,” said Ward.
Fans can speculate whether or not this was a subtle shot at Watson, but the fact is that the Browns are unstable at the quarterback position. With Watson continuing to suffer setbacks in his injury rehab process, the Browns need an answer at the position this offseason, whether through free agency or with the second overall pick in the upcoming draft.
Although Watson has struggled in a Browns uniform, Ward’s comments have the potential to stir some emotions in an already tense locker room. If Garrett is granted his trade request, tensions will surely rise, as losing a leader is a big deal to any team, and subtle shots at the quarterback will only worsen things.
What’s Next for the Browns?
Currently, the Browns have no intentions of moving Garrett; in that case, the team will try to mend the broken relationship with the franchise’s star.
However, if the Browns decide to grant Garrett his wish, the team will accept that it is time to rebuild. The team is already short depth-wise at the defensive end position.
If Garrett is traded, the need for the position almost certainly becomes a top priority at the draft, opening up the question of who will be the starting quarterback in 2025. Will the Browns rely on Watson again, or do they take a quarterback second overall?
Ward most likely shares the same views that all Browns fans have — with the team currently stuck in limbo, Garrett needs to be on the team. Losing a surefire Hall of Famer will only bring dark days to Cleveland.
