Myles Garrett Signs Historic Contract Extension with Browns After Trade Drama

The Cleveland Browns and their star defensive end, Myles Garrett, have reached a groundbreaking agreement on a contract extension, putting an end to recent trade controversy. The deal, reported by ESPN, ensures Garrett will remain with the team for the foreseeable future and includes a jaw-dropping $123 million in guaranteed money. With an average annual salary of $40 million, this makes Garrett the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history. Talk about setting the bar high!

While the Browns did not disclose the financial specifics, they confirmed the extension is for four years. If Garrett fulfills the entirety of this contract, he'll be sporting a Browns jersey through the 2030 season. The agreement also includes a no-trade clause, a clear sign of the franchise's commitment to their defensive cornerstone.

The timing of this deal is significant, coming just days after reports surfaced that Browns owner Jimmy Haslam had declined to meet with Garrett following a trade request. According to sources, Garrett had expressed his desire to move to a more competitive team, citing his goal of winning a Super Bowl. "The goal was never to go from Cleveland to Canton; it has always been to compete for and win a Super Bowl," Garrett stated earlier.

In February, Garrett voiced his frustrations with the team's direction, saying, "I have a lot of love for Cleveland, but it's always for me been about competing for championships, winning those big games, and winning Lombardis. We haven't had the opportunity to do that." The Browns ended last season with a dismal 3-14 record, hardly the kind of performance that inspires championship dreams.

Despite Garrett's public discontent, the Browns' leadership remained adamant that he was a key part of their future. Head coach Kevin Stefanski previously emphasized, "He's part of the present. He's part of the future." Well, that future now has a hefty price tag attached, but if Garrett delivers on his potential, Cleveland fans might just consider it money well spent.