Myles Garrett requested a trade out of Cleveland because he wants to compete for championships and win a Lombardi Trophy, expressing his feelings in an emotional letter released to the masses.
The 29-year-old star made sure to state his love for his adopted home of Northeast Ohio and the Browns’ incredible fanbase, adding that his goal was never to go from “Cleveland to Canton.” It was a heart-wrenching, soul-searching decision for him.
After a long process in which he consulted Ohio legend LeBron James for guidance, he formally requested a trade.
Myles Garrett Finds NFL Equivalent for Luka Dončić Trade
Speaking to Rich Eisen on Radio Row at the Super Bowl, Garrett explained all that went into his decision to request a trade out of Cleveland. He referenced long conversations with his entire family, plus a heart-to-heart with James.
Garrett’s ultimate conclusion was it was time to move on.
“I have a lot of love for Cleveland, but for me, it’s always been about competing for championships,” Garrett told Eisen. “Winning those big games, uhh, winning Lombardis, and we haven’t had the opportunity to do that, and that’s all I’m asking for.”
Then, Garrett attempted to find the NFL equivalent of the blockbuster NBA trade that swapped Luka Dončić for Anthony Davis. The topic has been at the tip of every athlete’s tongue since the deal ended on February 2.
Guess what? He found a worthy comparison.
The Browns superstar shook up Super Bowl week by announcing his trade request — @Flash_Garrett told us why now?
And did he really seek council from another famous Ohioan?#NFL #DawgPound @KingJames #SBLIX pic.twitter.com/W5Gr6CURpJ
— Rich Eisen Show (@RichEisenShow) February 5, 2025
“It’d be like a Chris Jones for a Josh Allen,” Garrett told Eisen. “And, you know, that’s as similar as a comparison as I can make it, and even then, it’s not a one-to-one, but it was just… it was just shocking.”
Full Statement from Garrett on Cleveland Trade
Garrett dropped his formal request in a letter leaked to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport on February 3. In it, the six-time Pro Bowler expressed his unwavering desire to win a Super Bowl while thanking Cleveland for helping shape him as a person. A lot of thought went into this decision.
“While I’ve loved calling this city my home, my desire to win and compete on the biggest stages won’t allow me to be complacent,” Garrett stated. “The goal was never to go from Cleveland to Canton. It has always been to compete for and win a Super Bowl. With that in mind, I have requested to be traded from the Cleveland Browns.”
What’s Next for Garrett?
Garrett played it cool when Eisen asked him if he had a list of teams to which he wanted to be traded, saying only, “There are contenders on the NFC side and the AFC side.” Other than that, Garrett wouldn’t elaborate or name franchises.
Remember, any team trading for Garrett must take on the remainder of his contract. He has two years left on his five-year, $125 million deal.
Garrett said, “I know in my position I don’t have much say on where I go, but hopefully we can leave off on good terms, and we can find a middle ground between us.”