Tensions between the Cleveland Browns and star defensive end Myles Garrett have escalated after team owner Jimmy Haslam refused to meet with him following Garrett’s formal trade request, according to NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero.
Garrett’s Request Denied, Directed to GM Instead
Garrett, one of the league’s premier defensive players, reportedly reached out to Haslam seeking a discussion about his future with the franchise. However, instead of agreeing to the meeting, Haslam redirected Garrett to general manager Andrew Berry, emphasizing that Berry is responsible for handling team operations, according to Mary Kay Cabot of Cleveland.com.
This response further underscores the Browns’ stance on the situation—despite Garrett’s trade request on February 3, Cleveland’s leadership remains unwilling to engage in trade talks and has made it clear they have no intention of parting ways with their defensive cornerstone.
Garrett Prepared to Hold Out If Browns Don’t Trade Him
While the Browns remain firm in their stance, Garrett is reportedly willing to take drastic measures if his demands are not met. According to Pelissero, the 29-year-old is prepared to sit out games if the organization refuses to facilitate a trade.
The Browns’ leadership, however, has publicly reaffirmed Garrett’s importance to the team.
“We can’t imagine a situation where not having Myles is best for the Browns,” Berry said at the NFL Combine, making it clear that trading the All-Pro pass rusher is not in their plans.
Garrett Wants a Super Bowl Contender, Eagles Among Interested Teams
Garrett still has two years remaining on his five-year, $125-million contract, signed in 2020. His frustration appears to stem from Cleveland’s lack of playoff success, as the Browns have not made a conference championship appearance in over two decades.
Per Cabot, Garrett is determined to play for a Super Bowl-contending team and is willing to do “whatever it takes” to be moved. Several teams are monitoring the situation, including the Philadelphia Eagles, who have shown interest in acquiring the defensive star, according to The Athletic’s Dianna Russini.
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Garrett’s Dominance and the Browns’ Struggles
Garrett remains one of the most dominant forces in the NFL. In 2023, he won Defensive Player of the Year and followed it up with another stellar campaign in 2024, finishing as the runner-up for the award. This past season, he recorded 14 sacks and 47 tackles in 17 games, proving he is still at the peak of his abilities.
Despite Garrett’s elite play, the Browns endured a disastrous 3-14 season in 2024, securing the second overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. With uncertainty surrounding the team’s long-term direction, Garrett’s desire to move on from Cleveland only seems to be intensifying.
What’s Next?
The Browns remain adamant about keeping their star pass rusher, but Garrett’s willingness to sit out games puts the organization in a difficult position. Will Cleveland cave under pressure and explore trade options, or will they hold their ground and risk further alienating their defensive leader?
With free agency and the draft approaching, this standoff could define the Browns’ offseason.