Just over a month after superstar defensive end Myles Garrett requested a trade, he is inking a record-breaking contract extension to stay with the Cleveland Browns.
Garrett requested a trade from Cleveland in early February because he is determined to hoist the Vince Lombardi Trophy before his career ends. While the 29-year-old isn’t close to retirement, winning a Super Bowl in his prime would be ideal, as this is when he has the most to contribute.
Clearly, Garrett either agrees with the Browns’ vision for the future or simply couldn’t resist the offer on the table.
How Much Is Myles Garrett’s Record-Breaking Extension?
ESPN’s Adam Schefter was the first to report on Garrett’s record-breaking $204 million extension, posting, “From trade to truce and beyond: the Browns and Myles Garrett reached agreement today on a record contract extension that averages $40 million per year and includes $123.5 million in guaranteed money and now makes him the highest-paid non-QB in NFL history, sources tell ESPN.
“Garrett’s agent, Nicole Lynn of Klutch Sports, and Browns GM Andrew Berry finalized the deal today.”
From trade to truce and beyond: the Browns and Myles Garrett reached agreement today on a record contract extension that averages $40 million per year and includes $123.5 million in guaranteed money and now makes him the highest-paid non-QB in NFL history, sources tell ESPN.… pic.twitter.com/scNWJH2vFX
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 9, 2025
NFL analyst Tom Pelissero broke down the full details of the contract, posting on X.
“Myles Garrett is now the highest-paid non-QB in NFL history. Full details: 4-year extension/6 total years, $40,000,000 APY, no-trade clause, $204,796,125 total value, $100,000,000 cash in the first three years, $1,000,000 annual workout bonuses, $88,800,000 execution guarantees, $122,796,125 total guarantees.”
It’s easy to see why the Browns were willing to sign the 2023 Defensive Player of the Year to such a massive deal. Garrett finished the 2024 season with 14 sacks, 22 tackles for loss, and one fumble recovery in 17 games.
However, despite his efforts, the Browns finished with a 3-14 record, which raises the question — was keeping Garrett the smartest move for Cleveland long term?
The Browns’ roster is still missing key pieces to become a Super Bowl contender, most notably a star quarterback. Their defense also has some gaps beyond Garrett.
According to PFSN’s Defense+ metric, Cleveland ranked No. 9 last season. Typically, Super Bowl-winning teams rank in the top five in that category. For instance, the Philadelphia Eagles’ defense ranked No. 2 when they won their Super Bowl this past season.
Still, Garrett’s individual dominance is undeniable. He led all qualified players with an 18.4% pressure rate in 2024. Over the last three seasons, he’s led all pass rushers in sacks (44), and among players with at least 500 pass-rushing snaps in the last three years, he ranks fifth in pressure rate (17.6%).
The only players above him? Micah Parsons, Bryce Huff, Nick Bosa, and Josh Uche.
Time will tell if this extension was the best move for the Browns, but few can argue that Garrett wasn’t worth the investment.