Myles Garrett remains one of the most dominant defensive players in the NFL, but recent off-field decisions have raised questions about his commitment to leading the Cleveland Browns. Could he lose his status as the team leader?
Despite being a two-time Defensive Player of the Year, Garrett is now facing criticism from fans and analysts for his absence from organized team activities (OTAs), as he headed halfway around the world.
A 2023 AP NFL Defensive Player of the Year and The Sporting News’ 2024 Defensive Player of the Year, the 29-year-old also has six Pro Bowl selections, six All-Pro. His talent on the field is undeniable.
But with team success still eluding the Browns and leadership becoming a point of emphasis, fans have begun to scrutinize his off-field decisions-most notably, his choice to vacation in Tokyo during OTAs.
“Tryna buy a place here asap hmu if you know someone,” Garrett posted to Instagram, showing him shopping in the Japanese capital.
While OTAs are officially voluntary, many expected him to be present after the franchise handed him a $160 million contract and fans were unsurprisingly disappointed at the revelation.
One fan wrote, “Garrett‘s absence is a big deal.”
A second said, “You would like the leader of your defense to be there…..”
And a third commented, “Browns are in desperate need of a real leader in that locker room.”
Can Shedeur Sanders become the team leader?
Amid the criticism surrounding Garrett, another name is quietly emerging as a potential leader within the Browns‘ organization: Shedeur Sanders, despite being a fifth-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft
Sanders is reportedly winning over the locker room with his demeanor and ability to build connections. NFL analyst and former Super Bowl champion Chris Canty recently praised the 23-year-old for his bonding traits.
“I’m going with whoever my locker room responds to the most,” Canty said to ESPN Radio. “Just based on how the rookies reacted to him coming off of rookie minicamp.
“Based on what we’ve been hearing in terms of his interactions with veterans around the building, the coaching staff, it feels like people are gravitating toward Shedeur Sanders.”
This early praise has been supported by the young quarterback’s growing bond with rookie running back Quinshon Judkins, as the two have been seen frequently together off the field, fostering team chemistry that often translates to on-field cohesion.
Sanders may not have the NFL resume Garrett does, but his willingness to engage with teammates, show up, and assume a leadership posture is catching the attention of coaches, veterans, and fans alike.
As the Browns prepare for another season, the contrast between Garrett‘s absence and Sanders‘ emergence poses significant questions about the future of leadership in Cleveland. Which one will take over?
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