After their defensive mainstay, Myles Garrett asked for a trade this week, the Cleveland Browns are in a financial and organisational bind. His demand comes at the worst possible time—if Cleveland sells him before March 18, they would be saddled with a dead cap penalty of $32.95 million, which might ruin their offseason plans. However, because a no-trade provision activates on March 19, waiting over that date gives Garrett complete discretion over his next location.
“This is a complete catastrophe for Cleveland,” an NFL front office executive said. “They’re either taking a massive cap hit or losing leverage entirely. Neither scenario is good.”
The $32.95 Million Dilemma: Cleveland’s Salary Cap Nightmare
In 2024, Garrett signed a five-year, $125 million contract deal that was designed to ensure he would stay in Cleveland for the long run. The Browns are now financially suffocated by that arrangement, with virtually no viable alternatives.
Garrett’s contract charge alone, if dealt before March 18, exceeds the entire cap space available for about one-third of the league.
Resolving the Financial Dilemma
- $32.95 million is the dead cap impact if exchanged before March 18 (completely guaranteed).
- Base pay for 2025: $20 million
- Activation of the no-trade clause: March 19, 2025
“The Browns structured this deal thinking Garrett would finish his career in Cleveland,” said salary cap expert Jason Fitzgerald. “Now, they’re stuck in a financial chokehold.”
Why Is Myles Garrett Demanding a Trade?
At 29, Garrett is still in his prime after a season with 16.5 sacks. However, it has been alleged that his dissatisfaction with Cleveland’s lack of bold roster moves has driven him to the brink. Cleveland has remained largely silent as clubs like the Chiefs, Ravens, and 49ers are making win-now deals.
“Myles sees other teams loading up for a Super Bowl, and he’s tired of waiting,” reported NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport. “He wants to be on a contender—not a franchise stuck in neutral.”
According to reports, the atmosphere in the locker room is at an all-time high, and some veterans support Garrett’s worries.
The Raiders Rumor: Maxx Crosby for Garrett?
The Las Vegas Raiders are a popular destination since they are in dire need of a great pass rusher. Maxx Crosby may be offered by Las Vegas in a straight-up trade, according to rumors, but accepting Garrett’s deal is a significant obstacle.
According to one AFC West official, “there is interest from both sides, but it’s a tremendous logistical nightmare.” To make it work, something catastrophic would need to occur.
Who Can Afford Myles Garrett?
Finding a staff that can manage Garrett’s massive contract is more important than simply getting the greatest offer. Few franchises possess both the financial freedom and the immediate incentive to act.
Garrett’s Possible Suits:
- Dallas Cowboys: Garrett and Micah Parsons would be a deadly combination, and Jerry Jones likes big plays.
- Buffalo Bills: Adding Garrett to their defensive front may be the final piece needed to win the title, especially since Josh Allen is at the height of his abilities.
- San Francisco 49ers: A Garrett-Nick Bosa tandem would be intimidating, and Kyle Shanahan is notorious for making bold personnel changes.
But as one AFC executive stated rather frankly, “No team is take on that cap hit and giving away top picks.” Cleveland is in a terrible situation.
What’s Next for the Browns? A Franchise-Defining Decision
Cleveland must now make two equally terrible decisions:
Before March 18th, trade Garrett: lose their greatest player, take a $32.95 million cap hit, and deal with a lot of negative fan feedback.
Keep him after March 19: When Garrett’s no trade provision takes effect and he may choose where he lands, you run the risk of losing all negotiating advantage.
According to former Browns quarterback Bernie Kosar, “a club may be defined or destroyed by this sort of event.”
For Cleveland, there is only a high stakes bet with no obvious winner no simple way out.
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