Full Breakdown
Cleveland Browns Modify Myles Garrett's Contract Terms
3/26/2026, 2:46:56 PM
Contract Modifications and Implications
The Cleveland Browns and Myles Garrett, the reigning NFL Defensive Player of the Year, have officially modified the terms of his contract. The changes, reported by ESPN's Field Yates, were finalized on Tuesday and primarily involve the timing of option bonuses for the years 2026, 2027, and 2028. Previously, these bonuses were required to be exercised by the 15th day of the league year, which falls on March 25. Under the new agreement, this deadline has been extended to seven days before the start of the regular season each year. Additionally, $8 million of Garrett's base salary for 2029 and 2030 has been converted into roster bonuses, providing both Garrett and the Browns with financial flexibility.
Benefits for Both Parties
The revised contract structure benefits Garrett by altering the timing of his option payments, allowing him to receive funds earlier in the league year. For the Browns, the modifications afford greater cap flexibility, which is crucial given Garrett's significant cap hit—projected to be around $24 million in 2026 and nearly $65 million by 2029. This strategic adjustment aims to help the team manage its salary cap more effectively while ensuring that Garrett remains a central figure in their defensive lineup.
Background on Myles Garrett
Myles Garrett was selected as the first overall pick by the Cleveland Browns in the 2017 NFL Draft. He signed a four-year, $160 million contract extension last March, which was a record for a defensive player at the time. Garrett has established himself as one of the premier pass rushers in NFL history, holding the single-season sack record with 23 sacks last season and winning the Defensive Player of the Year award twice.
Criticism and Trade Speculation
Despite the contract modifications, there has been ongoing speculation regarding Garrett's future with the Browns. Some analysts suggest that the changes may indicate the team's openness to trading him, especially given the timing of the option bonuses. Garrett himself has expressed a commitment to winning, stating, “I’m committed to winning, and as long as the team is doing so and they’re committed to that same thing, then I’m all on board.” However, he has also made it clear that he is not interested in a rebuilding phase.
Official Statements & Responses
The Browns have not publicly commented on the potential for trading Garrett following the contract modifications. However, the restructuring of his contract has raised eyebrows among analysts, who note that it could facilitate a trade if the team decides to pursue that route.
What's Next for the Browns and Garrett
As the Browns prepare for the upcoming season, they face significant challenges, particularly on the offensive side of the ball. The team is expected to focus on quarterback decisions and overall roster improvements. Garrett's performance will remain pivotal as he aims to lead the Browns to a Super Bowl, a goal he has openly articulated.
In summary, the modifications to Myles Garrett's contract reflect a strategic move by the Cleveland Browns to balance financial flexibility while retaining one of their star players, amidst ongoing speculation about his long-term future with the franchise.
