The Cleveland Browns are paying Myles Garrett like a franchise cornerstone-and rightfully so. With a $160 million extension in hand and a Defensive Player of the Year award on his résumé, Garrett is among the NFL’s elite.
But while his production is unquestioned, his recent absence from voluntary offseason workouts has raised a fair question: Should greatness come with a different set of expectations?
The Browns held Organized Team Activities (OTAs) this past week, and Garrett was nowhere to be seen. His absence wasn’t due to injury or contract issues-both have already been addressed. Instead, the star pass rusher was reportedly in Japan, halfway across the world from his teammates in Berea.
One Standard, or One for the Stars?
Veteran Browns reporter Mary Kay Cabot addressed Garrett’s absence on the “Orange and Brown Talk” podcast.
“Myles has really, truthfully, whether we like it or not, a little bit of a different set of rules than everybody else.”
She went on to say that Garrett has earned the trust to train on his own terms, citing his performance, accolades, and preparation.
While many respect that viewpoint, it still opens the door to a deeper discussion. If OTAs are important enough for the rest of the roster, shouldn’t they be important enough for the team’s highest-paid leader? And if Garrett is already dominant, wouldn’t team activities offer a chance to become even better-and elevate those around him?
NFL locker rooms thrive on example. Leadership isn’t just making plays on Sundays; it’s about consistency, accountability, and visibility-especially for younger players watching veterans set the tone. Garrett’s absence, while within his rights, inevitably draws attention to a double standard.
This isn’t about questioning Garrett‘s commitment. His track record speaks volumes, and no one doubts his conditioning or talent. But perception matters. If team chemistry and culture are truly a priority for the Browns, having their defensive centerpiece absent during a key offseason stretch sends mixed signals.
Supporters might argue that Garrett will be ready when it counts-when the pads go on at training camp and games begin in September. But that argument raises a bigger issue: If OTAs aren’t meaningful, why host them at all?
Garrett‘s offseason trip to Japan may be perfectly timed from a personal standpoint, but the optics are less ideal. There’s a full month between minicamp and training camp for players to travel and unwind. Choosing to skip OTAs, even voluntary ones, leaves room for criticism when you’re the face of the franchise.
The Browns don’t need Garrett to prove he can dominate. They know that already. What they need-what $160 million should also buy-is visible leadership. And sometimes, leadership starts not with a speech or a sack, but with simply showing up.
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