The Cleveland Browns are navigating a wave of speculation about a potential blockbuster trade, as league insiders say something “stinks” about the current Myles Garrett situation.
While the front office remains adamant that their All-Pro defensive end is not on the move, recent financial maneuvers have caught the attention of experts who believe a departure is not far-fetched.
Ari Meirov recently noted that the team converted a significant portion of Garrett’s base salary into a signing bonus, a move that typically signals a win-now push but, in this case, might be preparing the books for a massive transition.
According to a New York Times report, a late-March contract modification deferred a $10 million payment to Garrett without providing Cleveland any immediate cap relief.
This detail suggests the team has opened the door for a trade before that payment becomes due in early September.
Although Garrett is currently absent from voluntary offseason programs and has yet to meet new head coach Todd Monken in person, his history of preparing solo until mandatory minicamp makes his absence expected.
However, the context is complicated by the fact that Garrett previously campaigned for a trade despite setting an NFL record with 23 sacks last season.
Insiders suggest that any potential move would likely happen after June 1, allowing the Browns to split the dead-cap charge over multiple years.
If Cleveland targets a pass rusher early in the draft, it could be a clear sign that 2026 is a “punt year” and Garrett is truly available.
Despite these growing concerns, Todd Monken has dismissed any alarm over Garrett’s absence from the facility.
Monken emphasized that the current workouts are strictly voluntary and that, while he values the camaraderie of having the full roster present, he is not worried about his star player’s readiness.
He noted that it is the staff’s job to create an environment where players want to be for their own development, concluding that Garrett has earned the trust to be ready for the season on his own terms.
The Cleveland Browns are navigating a wave of speculation about a potential blockbuster trade, as league insiders say something “stinks” about the current Myles Garrett situation. While the front office remains adamant that their All-Pro defensive end is not on the move, recent financial maneuvers have caught the attention of experts who believe a departure is not far-fetched.
