Myles Garrett Trade Shocker! 7 Teams That Could Land the NFL’s Top Pass Rusher
Myles Garrett has been the face of the Cleveland Browns’ defense since being selected as the No. 1 overall pick in the 2017 NFL Draft. However, after eight seasons in Cleveland, the star pass rusher has officially requested a trade, citing his desire “to compete for and win a Super Bowl.” This shocking development has sent ripples across the NFL, with several contending teams likely to vie for his services.
While Browns GM Andrew Berry has publicly stated that the team intends to retain Garrett and hopes he retires in Cleveland, the demand for an elite defensive playmaker of his caliber will be sky-high. The 2023 Defensive Player of the Year has consistently dominated opposing offenses, averaging 12.8 sacks per season throughout his career.
If the Browns decide to honor Garrett’s request and rebuild their roster, here are the most likely destinations for the All-Pro defensive end.
1. Philadelphia Eagles – A Super Bowl-Ready Contender
The Philadelphia Eagles stand out as one of the most attractive landing spots for Garrett. The team has reached two of the last three Super Bowls and is in prime position to make another deep playoff run. However, their defensive line is set to take a hit, with key contributors like Josh Sweat, Milton Williams, and veteran Brandon Graham hitting free agency.
Despite having only $18.1 million in cap space, Eagles GM Howie Roseman has a reputation for making bold moves to acquire elite talent. Philadelphia’s aggressive trade history, highlighted by their acquisition of A.J. Brown, suggests they would be more than willing to restructure contracts and create financial flexibility to land Garrett. Adding him to an already formidable defense could be the missing piece for another championship push.
2. Detroit Lions – Pairing Garrett with Aidan Hutchinson
The Detroit Lions have emerged as a powerhouse in the NFC, and their defense could be one dominant pass rusher away from taking the next step. Aidan Hutchinson has been exceptional, but the Lions have struggled to find a consistent complement on the opposite edge.
With $46.5 million in cap space (10th-most in the league), Detroit has the financial flexibility to absorb Garrett’s contract without sacrificing much of their roster. Additionally, the Lions’ front office has previously negotiated with the Browns, acquiring Za’Darius Smith before the 2024 trade deadline, suggesting an open line of communication between the two teams.
A Hutchinson-Garrett duo would be one of the most terrifying edge rush pairings in the NFL, making Detroit an instant Super Bowl contender.
3. Green Bay Packers – Boosting a Rising Defense
The Green Bay Packers have built an impressive defensive unit, ranking fourth in defensive EPA last season. While Rashan Gary has established himself as an elite pass rusher, 2023 first-round pick Lukas Van Ness has yet to develop into a consistent force.
By acquiring Garrett, Green Bay would instantly elevate its defensive front, pairing him with Gary to form a fearsome pass-rushing tandem. With $42.1 million in cap space, the Packers have the financial ability to take on Garrett’s remaining contract while continuing to build around their young core.
4. Washington Commanders – A Team on the Rise
Under the leadership of new head coach Dan Quinn, the Washington Commanders have rapidly transformed their defense into a respectable unit. However, they lack a true game-changer on the edge. Garrett would fill that void, especially if pending free agent Dante Fowler Jr. (10.5 sacks) departs.
With a league-leading $78.1 million in cap space, Washington has the financial muscle to offer a compelling trade package while still building around rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels. Given that the team is ahead of schedule in its rebuild, Garrett could be the perfect defensive anchor to accelerate their resurgence.
5. Los Angeles Chargers – Replacing Khalil Mack
The Los Angeles Chargers made the playoffs in Jim Harbaugh’s first season, but their defense remains a work in progress. With Khalil Mack set to hit free agency, the Chargers have a clear need for an elite pass rusher to pair with Joey Bosa.
Garrett would be a natural fit in Harbaugh’s defense, giving the Chargers a premier edge duo capable of disrupting opposing offenses. Although the team’s cap space situation isn’t as favorable as other contenders, strategic roster adjustments could make room for a player of Garrett’s caliber.
6. Chicago Bears – A Defensive Powerhouse in the Making
The Chicago Bears may not be a proven contender just yet, but adding Garrett would significantly bolster their defensive identity. The Bears already have Montez Sweat, and pairing him with Garrett could transform their defense into one of the league’s best.
Chicago boasts nearly $63 million in cap space, the sixth-most in the NFL, providing them with the financial flexibility to make a blockbuster trade. If newly appointed head coach Ben Johnson can convince Garrett of the team’s upward trajectory, the Bears could become an unexpected landing spot for the star pass rusher.
7. Las Vegas Raiders – Forming a Dominant Defensive Trio
The Las Vegas Raiders aren’t currently a championship-caliber team, but their defense has the potential to become elite. Imagine a front line featuring Maxx Crosby, Christian Wilkins, and Myles Garrett—opposing quarterbacks would have nightmares facing that trio.
With $92.6 million in cap space (second-most in the NFL), Las Vegas has the financial resources to make a splashy move. Additionally, the arrival of Pete Carroll as head coach could make the Raiders an attractive destination. Carroll has a history of building dominant defenses and could use Garrett as the centerpiece of his new system.
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Final Thoughts: Will the Browns Move Garrett?
While Cleveland remains hesitant to part ways with their star defender, the overwhelming demand for an elite pass rusher like Myles Garrett could lead to an irresistible trade offer. With several teams in prime position to make a move, the 2025 offseason could see one of the biggest trades in recent NFL history.
Ultimately, Garrett’s landing spot will come down to a combination of cap space, Super Bowl contention, and trade assets. Whether he ends up in Philadelphia, Detroit, or another contender, one thing is certain—his presence will immediately elevate any defense to an elite level.
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