Trade chatter around Myles Garrett has intensified in recent days, but inside the building, the message from the Cleveland Browns is reportedly unwavering: their defensive cornerstone is not available.
Speculation grew after coaching changes and a cryptic social media post from Garrett sparked theories that the All-Pro pass rusher might be reconsidering his future. However, multiple insiders, including veteran reporter Mary Kay Cabot, have indicated the Browns have no plans to entertain trade talks this offseason.
The reason is both philosophical and contractual for the Browns
Related:
- Super Bowl 2026: Date, time, location, and everything to know
- Where to watch the Super Bowl 2026? TV channel and streaming
- Super Bowl Halftime Show 2026: Everything about Bad Bunny’s performance
- How much do tickets for the Super Bowl cost in 2026?
- Super Bowl Winners List: All teams that have won the Vince Lombardi
Garrett signed a four-year, $160 million extension in March 2025 that includes a no-trade clause and heavy guarantees. That deal doesn’t just make a move complicated-it signals organizational intent. Cleveland views Garrett as the foundation of its defensive identity through the end of the decade.
Last offseason, after a 3-14 campaign, Garrett publicly expressed frustration and a desire to compete for a Super Bowl. The Browns responded by restructuring his deal and reaffirming their commitment to building around him. That moment, insiders say, solidified the front office’s stance that Garrett is untouchable.
Coaching shift fueled rumors about Garrett
The noise ramped up when Cleveland passed over longtime defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz for the head coaching job, instead hiring offensive mind Todd Monken. Schwartz had overseen one of the league’s top defenses and played a key role in Garrett’s record-setting 2025 season.
League sources suggested Garrett was disappointed by the decision, and an Instagram post from the star defender was interpreted by many as frustration with the franchise’s direction.
Schwartz has since indicated he will move on after the perceived snub, adding more fuel to speculation that defensive leaders in the locker room could be unsettled.
But Cleveland’s front office reportedly views the situation as standard offseason turbulence, not a sign that Garrett is pushing for an exit. As one insider put it, a social post and coaching turnover don’t outweigh a long-term plan built around an elite defender.
In fact, reports indicate the Browns wouldn’t trade Garrett even if he asked, just as they refused to consider it last year.
Why moving Garrett makes no sense for Cleveland
Beyond the symbolism, there’s a practical reason a trade is off the table: the salary cap.
Dealing Garrett would trigger an estimated $41 million cap penalty, creating more problems than it solves. With the roster already structured around his presence, moving him would force a defensive rebuild Cleveland has no appetite for.
Garrett is under contract through 2030 and remains one of the most disruptive defensive players in football. His production, leadership, and durability make him the exact type of player teams try to acquire-not the type they ship out.
For Cleveland, the priority this offseason is stabilizing the coaching transition and keeping core leaders aligned. That includes Garrett at the center of the defense.
Despite the headlines, the Browns’ position is clear: Myles Garrett isn’t going anywhere.
Read the full article here
