Full Breakdown
Myles Garrett Trade: Browns Send Hall of Famer to Rams
6/9/2026, 7:02:24 AM
Trade Details
On June 1 2026 the Cleveland Browns traded defensive end Myles Garrett (95) to the Los Angeles Rams for Pro Bowl edge rusher Jared Verse, a 2027 first-round pick, a 2028 second-round pick and a 2029 third-round pick.
Context and Motivation
The Browns, rebuilding under GM Andrew Berry, sought draft capital to accelerate a quarterback search after years of instability. Garrett, a two-time Defensive Player of the Year, had requested a trade in 2025 and signed a $160 million extension before the deal.
Key Players
Principal figures include Browns GM Andrew Berry, Rams GM Les Snead, Rams head coach Sean McVay, defensive coordinator Chris Shula, and the players Myles Garrett, Jared Verse, cornerback Denzel Ward and quarterback Deshaun Watson.
Timeline
Early 2025: Garrett files trade request. April 29 2026: Rams re-engage after draft. May 2026: Verse added to offer. June 1 2026: Trade announced. June 8 2026: Garrett joins Rams OTAs.
Stats Overview
Garrett posted 23 sacks, 33 tackles for loss and a league-record 23 sacks in 2025, earning DPOY honors. Verse recorded 7.5 sacks, 80 pressures and 52 hurries, ranking 11th among edge rushers by PFF.
Impact Assessment
The Browns gain three early-round picks and a young Pro Bowl talent, bolstering a rebuild centered on a future quarterback. The Rams acquire a premier pass rusher, offsetting the loss of Aaron Donald and enhancing Super Bowl odds.
Official Statements
Rams head coach Sean McVay said the priority was helping Garrett acclimate and valued chemistry over immediate results. Browns GM Andrew Berry called the return “the best possible package” for a long-term rebuild, emphasizing Verse’s youth and the draft assets.
Criticism & Opposition
Analysts warn Cleveland surrendered a Hall of Fame-level defender, potentially weakening its pass rush. Cornerback Denzel Ward labeled the deal “crazy,” and some fans question whether the draft capital compensates for Garrett’s on-field impact and leadership.
On-Field Reactions
Rams defensive lineman Quentin Lake praised Garrett’s presence, saying the team “is not asking him to do anything but be himself.” Browns cornerback Denzel Ward reiterated his “crazy” sentiment and expressed uncertainty about his own future.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Some outlets suggested the Eagles and Cowboys explored Garrett, but Browns sources confirmed the Rams were the sole serious suitor. Tax analysis shows Garrett will lose roughly 10 % of his salary moving from Ohio’s 3.1 % rate to California’s 13.3 % rate, a factor not addressed in the trade terms.
Verbatim Quotes
- “It's fun,” — Chris Shula, Defensive Coordinator, Los Angeles Rams
- “If you talk about coverage and rushers, they are two of the best guys you could possibly get in the NFL,” — Chris Shula
- “More importantly than anything, just getting used to his teammates, just getting familiar with the building, all those types of things,” — Sean McVay, Head Coach, Los Angeles Rams
- “Crazy trade. Definitely a crazy trade,” — Denzel Ward, Cornerback, Cleveland Browns
What’s Next
Cleveland will aim for a franchise quarterback in the 2027 draft, with Arch Manning cited as a top prospect. The Rams will integrate Garrett into their 3-4 defense during summer practices.
