Myles Garrett has sacked 31 different quarterbacks during his eight-year NFL career. On Friday, the four-time All-Pro edge rusher had to stand in his own pocket and take the pressure of fielding questions about his decision to sign an extension with the Cleveland Browns instead of trying to follow through on his trade request.
“I think I had some frustration. And you know, I feel like that helped us grow and have conversations that were difficult, but needed to be had,” Garrett said. “I think the fans will see that my heart is in the right place. It has never been about money. It’s always been about winning. That’s where my frustration lies.”
Garrett’s four-year contract extension has an average salary of $40m and makes him the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history.
The deal ended a month-long saga that began during Super Bowl week when the 2023 AP Defensive Player of the Year asked for a trade, saying he wanted to win a Super Bowl. The Browns were firm, however, that they would not entertain offers from other teams.