From Cleveland's Star to L.A.'s Championship Contender
Garrett's Initial Trade Request and Record-Breaking Season with the Browns
In February 2025, Myles Garrett, then 30, expressed his desire to leave the Cleveland Browns, seeking an opportunity to compete for a Super Bowl. He publicly stated that his ambition for ultimate victory superseded any personal comfort, leading him to formally request a trade from the team. However, just a month later, Garrett signed a four-year contract extension with the Browns, making him the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history at the time. Despite his team's 5-12 record, Garrett delivered a phenomenal performance in his final season with Cleveland, setting an NFL all-time single-season sack record with 23 sacks, solidifying his legacy with the franchise that drafted him first overall in 2017.
A New Chapter: Joining the Los Angeles Rams
On a Monday, the Browns executed a trade, sending Garrett to the Los Angeles Rams. In return, Cleveland received edge rusher Jared Verse, a 2027 first-round draft pick, a 2028 second-round draft pick, and a 2029 third-round draft pick. Following the trade, Garrett shared a heartfelt farewell message to Cleveland and its fans. By Tuesday, he had arrived in Los Angeles and, in a video released by the Rams, expressed his excitement about joining the team and competing for a championship.
Rams' Strategic Acquisitions and Super Bowl Aspirations
The Los Angeles Rams had already become strong Super Bowl contenders after acquiring All-Pro cornerback Trent McDuffie from the Kansas City Chiefs in March. The addition of Garrett further solidified their status as overwhelming favorites. The team also boasts the reigning NFL MVP quarterback, Matthew Stafford, who led the league's most prolific offense in 2025. This series of aggressive acquisitions underscores the Rams' 'win-now' mentality, with General Manager Snead's strategic moves reflecting a similar approach taken when they acquired Stafford in 2021, leading to a Super Bowl LVI victory.
The 'Win-Now' Window and Garrett's Browns Legacy
With Matthew Stafford entering his age-38 season, the Rams recognize a limited window of one to two years to capitalize on their current roster for another Super Bowl run. The team has committed fully to achieving this goal, aiming for a championship at SoFi Stadium next February. Meanwhile, Myles Garrett leaves the Browns as the franchise's all-time leader in sacks (125.5), quarterback hits (239), and tackles for loss (149), leaving behind a remarkable legacy while pursuing his ultimate career ambition.
