The dream of superstar Cleveland Browns edge rusher Myles Garrett joining the Washington Commanders was fun while it lasted.
After previously announcing that he would be seeking a trade, the 2023 NFL Defensive Player of the Year has now signed a four-year, $40 million per year extension to stay in Cleveland. Garrett had cited a “desire to win” as a reason for his unhappiness, but the Browns were never interested in sending him packing.
Garrett will become the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history with his new deal. This will now keep him in Cleveland for several more years and leave interested parties like the Commanders forced to seek alternatives.
Despite the Browns going 3-14 in 2024, things can turn around quickly in the NFL. The Commanders know that as well as anyone following their sensational run to the NFC Championship game. And it never hurts when you have a player of Garrett’s caliber to spearhead your defense. This was an easy call from the Browns’ perspective.
For those in pursuit of game-changing names on the trade market, though, it is not optimal news.
Washington is among the leaders in that clubhouse, having already sprung a deal for former San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Deebo Samuel Sr. as the Commanders. This is proof that Adam Peters is looking to do whatever is possible to capitalize off of their surprising 2024 resurgence.
Garrett will become the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history with his new deal. This will now keep him in Cleveland for several more years and leave interested parties like the Commanders forced to seek alternatives.
Despite the Browns going 3-14 in 2024, things can turn around quickly in the NFL. The Commanders know that as well as anyone following their sensational run to the NFC Championship game. And it never hurts when you have a player of Garrett’s caliber to spearhead your defense. This was an easy call from the Browns’ perspective.
For those in pursuit of game-changing names on the trade market, though, it is not optimal news.
Washington is among the leaders in that clubhouse, having already sprung a deal for former San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Deebo Samuel Sr. as the Commanders. This is proof that Adam Peters is looking to do whatever is possible to capitalize off of their surprising 2024 resurgence.
The Commanders additionally re-signed two key veterans — linebacker Bobby Wagner and tight end Zach Ertz — ahead of free agency. Fans can expect Washington to be extremely busy in the coming days and weeks. They currently have the third-most salary cap space in the NFL at $79.72 million, trailing only the New England Patriots and Los Angeles Chargers.
Just because Garrett is off the checklist, it doesn’t mean the Commanders won’t still be making a major splash.
Cincinnati Bengals defensive end Trey Hendrickson might be available as his team permitted him to seek a trade. Washington has reportedly shown interest in the 2024 NFL sack leader and first-team All-Pro. Although it would be expensive, he represents a much more attainable target than Garrett ever seemed to be.
The Commanders will need to address the defensive line regardless, especially after releasing long-time starter and two-time Pro Bowler Jonathan Allen. Daron Payne is another veteran who could be seeing his time in Washington come to an end next offseason given his recent dip in production and hefty contract.
When free agency shakes out, the Commanders’ defensive front seven is going to look much different than it did in 2024, perhaps led by someone with a superstar pedigree. But that player won’t be Garrett.
