Myles Garrett Says Goodbye to Cleveland, Reflects on Impact of His Time with the Browns

Myles Garrett, the first overall pick in the 2017 NFL Draft, is bidding farewell to Cleveland after a remarkable tenure with the Browns. Over the years, he established himself as a dominant force on the field, earning five All-Pro selections and two Defensive Player of the Year awards, while also setting a record for NFL sacks. Despite his impressive accomplishments, he leaves the city without the championship he longed to secure for its loyal fans.

In a heartfelt message shared on social media, Garrett expressed a mix of gratitude and regret following his trade to the Los Angeles Rams. “Nine years. It’s hard to put into words what that really means when so much of your life has been shaped in one place, around one team, and with one community behind you,” he wrote. He acknowledged the strong bond he forged with the city and its supporters, stating, “From my very first play, you embraced me, and I wanted to help bring winning back to a city whose loyalty, resilience, and belief never wavered.”

Garrett reflected on how his time in Cleveland shaped him personally and professionally. He noted, “Cleveland made me tougher. You challenged me. You taught me about perseverance, about showing up even when things aren’t easy, and what loyalty really looks like.” He expressed deep appreciation for the unwavering support he received from fans, saying, “To the Dawg Pound: Thank you for embracing my family and [me] from Day 1.”

As part of the trade, the Browns will acquire edge rusher Jared Verse along with multiple draft picks, including a first-round selection in 2027 and additional picks in 2028 and 2029. Garrett’s departure marks the end of an era for the franchise, as he leaves behind a legacy of dedication and remarkable athleticism.