Cleveland Browns
· 2026-07-08
Cleveland Browns announced the signing of veteran defensive end Myles Garrett on a five‑year deal, giving the franchise the cornerstone it has chased since the 2022 overhaul. The deal, sealed on July 8, 2026, positions Garrett as the anchor of a defense that helped the Browns climb to 7th in the NFC with a 9-7-1 record, ending a four‑game losing streak.
Garrett’s contract was negotiated by General Manager Andrew Berry after a week‑long meeting with the player’s camp in Cleveland. The agreement includes a $45 million signing bonus and a $120 million guarantee, making it the most lucrative defensive pact in franchise history. Berry emphasized the need for a proven pass‑rusher to complement Deshaun Watson’s evolving offense. The deal was finalized at the Browns’ headquarters on Cleveland’s east side, with both parties signing in front of a small group of media.
Since the 2023 draft, the Browns have struggled to generate consistent pressure on opposing quarterbacks. In 2025, the team recorded just 28 sacks, ranking 28th league‑wide. Garrett posted 12.5 sacks last season with the Philadelphia Eagles, proving he can dominate the line of scrimmage. His presence is expected to free up edge rushers like Zack Martin and give Coach Kevin Stefanski more flexibility in blitz packages. Early practice reports note Garrett already logging double‑digit pressures in the first week of OTAs.
With a stronger pass rush, Watson can operate with a cleaner pocket, potentially increasing his completion rate and reducing turnover risk. The offensive line, anchored by Joel Bitonio, now has a reliable back‑end defender to handle stunts and chip blocks. Analysts predict the Browns could improve their passing yards per game from 235 to near 260 if Garrett’s pressure translates to quicker releases. The synergy between a fortified defense and a more efficient offense could be the catalyst the Browns need to break their recent slump.
The Browns head to Jacksonville on September 13, 2026, for their next matchup against the Jaguars. The game will be a litmus test for Garrett’s impact, as Jacksonville’s quarterback Trevor Lawrence thrives against weak pass rushes. If Garrett can disrupt Lawrence’s rhythm early, the Browns stand a strong chance to snap their L4 streak and solidify their climb in the NFC standings.
Locking in a player of Garrett’s caliber signals that Cleveland is committed to building a sustainable contender rather than a short‑term flash. The front office’s willingness to invest heavily in defense suggests future moves may focus on complementary pieces, such as a versatile linebacker or a shutdown corner. For fans, the signing offers a tangible sign of progress after years of rebuilding turbulence. The Browns now have a clear anchor around which to construct the next chapter of their franchise.