Full Breakdown
Mike Tomlin Declares Myles Garrett the Best Player in Football
9/9/2026, 1:13:30 PM
Core Event: Tomlin’s Assessment on the “NFL Show”
Former Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin, who led the franchise for 19 seasons and captured Super Bowl XLIII, appeared on Pro Football Focus’ “NFL Show” and named Cleveland Browns pass-rusher Myles Garrett—now with the Los Angeles Rams—as the “best damn player in football.”
Background & Context: Garrett’s Record-Setting 2025 Season and Rams Move
Garrett set the NFL single-season sack record with 23 sacks in 2025 while playing for the Browns, a division rival of Tomlin’s former Steelers. After that historic campaign, he signed with the Rams, joining a defense that already features Aaron Donald, a future Hall of Fame defensive tackle.
Data & Statistics: Sack Record and Team Context
- 23 sacks in 2025 – NFL single-season record.
- Plays alongside Aaron Donald on a Rams defense that complements a high-scoring offense led by quarterback Matthew Stafford, wide receivers Puka Nacua and Davante Adams.
- The Rams’ potent offense forces opponents to pass more, creating additional sack opportunities for pass rushers like Garrett.
Official Statements & Responses: Tomlin’s Commentary
Tomlin praised Garrett’s ability to generate pressure even when games are “behind” and teams run the ball. He emphasized that “money moments” arise when a defense must become one-dimensional. “If he's on a good team and they're ahead and people have to get one dimensional like those moments dictate, that's where the money is made. That's where legacy is made. This guy has created a legacy in moments that aren't built for it,” — Mike Tomlin
Why It Matters: Potential Impact on the Rams’ Defensive Threat
Tomlin argued that Garrett’s presence on a “good team” could translate into more “legacy”-building moments, especially when opponents are forced to throw. The combination of a high-volume passing offense and Garrett’s record-breaking pass-rush skill positions the Rams to create additional “money moments” that could influence game outcomes.
