As the 2026 NFL offseason unfolds, rumors continue to circulate that the Cleveland Browns might trade Myles Garrett despite his record-breaking performance last year. Garrett, who signed the most lucrative contract for a defensive player in NFL history just last season, set a new standard with 23 sacks, yet questions about his future in Cleveland persist amid the team’s rebuilding efforts.
Browns analyst Tony Grossi has directly addressed these persistent trade rumors, providing a clear explanation for why a deal involving Garrett seems highly unlikely. Grossi counters suggestions from figures like Mike Tannenbaum, who believe the Browns could explore trading Garrett due to his significant contract and the roster changes underway.
Key Obstacles That Make Trading Garrett Unfeasible for the Browns
Grossi highlighted several critical factors that reduce the likelihood of Garrett being moved this year. First, Garrett possesses a no-trade clause in his contract, giving him significant control over whether he can be traded. This was especially relevant last offseason when Garrett publicly requested a trade, but the Browns chose not to comply.
If they wouldn’t trade him when he wanted to be traded, why would you do an about-face? He’s more difficult to trade now than he was a year ago. He’s got a bigger contract and there are more salary cap ramifications, both for the Browns and for the team that acquires him, and he’s got a no-trade clause … He is in for the long haul, he’s the only guy they’ve got to sell right now,
explained Grossi.
The contract extension Garrett signed last season not only made him the highest-paid player at his position but also increased the complexity and financial burden any potential trade would carry. Grossi argued that if the Browns were serious about trading Garrett, the ideal moment was last year, when his contract and the associated cap penalties were smaller.
Moreover, trading Garrett now would create larger salary cap implications for both Cleveland and any team interested in acquiring him. The delays mean that the Browns missed the cheaper opportunity to part ways with him, creating questions about the rationale behind entertaining trade offers at this point.
Myles Garrett’s Impact Since Rejoining the Browns
The decision to retain Garrett and give him a top-tier contract paid immediate dividends. His 23-sack season not only shattered franchise records but also earned him the Defensive Player of the Year honors. Additionally, Garrett led the industry’s performance rankings for edge defenders, confirming his elite status on the field.
In the context of Cleveland’s rebuilding phase, Garrett remains a crucial cornerstone for the franchise’s defense. His presence stabilizes the roster as the Browns navigate roster transitions and salary cap challenges, making him an invaluable asset rather than a trade commodity.
What This Means for Browns Fans and the 2026 Season Ahead
With Garrett locked in for the foreseeable future and rumors of a trade effectively dismissed, the Browns can focus on leveraging their star edge defender’s talents heading into the new season. This clarity removes uncertainty around the defensive leader’s future and allows Cleveland to build around him strategically.
As the NFL season approaches, fans and analysts alike will watch Garrett’s performance with heightened expectations, anticipating continued dominance and leadership on a Browns squad eager to improve its playoff prospects. Meanwhile, rumors of trades seem more likely to remain just noise amid the realities of contracts and team priorities.
Should the Browns entertain trade offers for Myles Garrett? @TonyGrossi shares his thoughts… pic.twitter.com/3sa3bwWnFu
— ESPN Cleveland (@ESPNCleveland) February 23, 2026
