Browns Owner Declines Myles Garrett’s Trade Talk Request

CLEVELAND, Ohio — Cleveland Browns owner Jimmy Haslam has rejected star pass rusher Myles Garrett‘s request for a meeting regarding his trade demand, directing him instead to general manager Andrew Berry, a league source confirmed on Friday.

Garrett, the 2023 NFL Defensive Player of the Year, initially requested a trade on February 3, arguing that the Browns’ vision does not align with his desire to win a championship. Berry, who oversees football operations, has consistently stated he has no intentions of trading the six-time Pro Bowler.

At the NFL scouting combine in Indianapolis last week, Berry reiterated, “We’re not interested in trading Myles.” Meanwhile, Browns coach Kevin Stefanski emphasized that Garrett remains integral to both the team’s present and its future. “I think the world of Myles,” he said. “I expect him to be on our team this year, next year, the year after that.”

Garrett, 29, expressed his frustrations with the team’s direction and noted he would prefer to play for a contender. “I want to be able to go out there and compete at the highest levels,” he said. He is not open to a contract extension with the Browns, despite having two years remaining on his current deal, which totals $125 million over five years.

In eight seasons, Garrett has been part of two playoff teams; however, the Browns had a disappointing 3-14 finish in the 2024 season — their worst record since the infamous 0-16 year in 2017. This season, Cleveland holds the second overall pick in the upcoming NFL Draft, facing pressure to improve.

While Garrett’s request has sparked concern among his teammates, particularly linebacker Denzel Ward, who said he would question the team’s commitment to winning if Garrett were traded, the organization appears unified in its resolve to retain the star defender. “Myles has to be a part of the organization’s plan,” Berry said.

The Browns are also exploring the prospect of acquiring a veteran quarterback to bolster their roster after last year’s struggles, particularly stemming from the acquisition of Deshaun Watson, who played only 19 of 51 possible games due to injuries and suspensions. Berry maintains faith in Garrett’s role as pivotal to the team’s future plans.

Garrett’s trade request follows a wave of player movements this offseason, with teams like the Cincinnati Bengals granting permission to edge rusher Trey Hendrickson to seek a trade. The dynamics within the Browns organization remain tense as both parties work through the potential implications of Garrett’s demands and the team’s aspirations for a successful 2025 season.