(Photo: Sporting News)
I paid close attention to Myles Garrett when he was playing his college ball for the Texas A&M Aggies and was wowed. To be that big, so powerful, yet explosive is what made him stand out and the Cleveland Browns made him the number one pick in the NFL Draft in 2017. Myles received unanimous All-American honors for his tremendous play. I’ve often said he looks like a guy you create on Madden. Back in February. Myles announced that he wanted to be traded from the Cleveland Browns and wished to play for a contender. I was all in for this because let’s be honest, he’s in the prime of his career, and you play to win the game (word to Herm Edwards). Those trade talks are no more! Myles has signed a contract extension to remain in Cleveland. After Maxx Crosby became the highest-paid non-Quarterback just last week, number 95 in Cleveland now holds that title.
Myles is one of the two best defensive players in the league, and he isn’t number two either. I know the sun hasn’t necessarily shined too much in Cleveland over the years, but Myles is the true shining point. What T.J. Watt is to the Steelers is what this guy is to the Browns from an impact standpoint. Haven’t I always said you’re a special player when your team is on the schedule, and you’re the first name they bring up on the game plan? At 6’4 and 271 pounds, Myles is a freakish athlete with all the moves in his arsenal such as his get off. It’s so elite and allows him to win many of his battles, and it’s how fast he gets off the ball, plus he’s beating tackles to the spot most of the time, and they struggle to block or contain him. If you don’t put max protection on the side he’s lined up on, it won’t end well for you. The main thing that’s always stood out to me with Myles is the flexibility he plays with meaning how he bends the corner in his pursuit and if you aren’t perfect in your setup when facing him, it’s going to be a long day at the office for you. He’s so disruptive whether he’s rushing the passer or stopping the run. Myles has zero weaknesses in his game as he’s quick enough to get to where he wants, strong enough to push you away and the first step as I mentioned is elite and tough for anyone to handle. He’s always been relentless in his pursuit and even when he’s running a little too far, he still finds a way to get back to make a play. Myles reads first, then reacts.
I wasn’t expecting this, and I’m sure you weren’t either. Also, it’s ironic that this happens after the Raiders paid Maxx Crosby. I remember when he was drafted, Hall of Famer Bruce Smith said he wanted to work with Myles which is something considering Bruce is one of the greatest EDGE players ever to play the game. I see many similarities between the two. This past season, Myles became the first player to record 100 career sacks before his 29th birthday. The year before, he was named Defensive Player of the Year. He’s staying in Cleveland for the foreseeable future, and I’m glad the Browns did all they could to keep him there. He’s been their franchise player, and you don’t like guys of his caliber just walk away.
