Cleveland Browns superstar myles garrett continues to define what elite defense looks like in today’s NFL. The former No. 1 overall draft pick has built a reputation as one of football’s most disruptive forces, earning Defensive Player of the Year honors and maintaining his place among the league’s most feared pass rushers.
From his explosive first step to his relentless pursuit of quarterbacks, Garrett has transformed the Browns’ defense into one of the toughest units in the league. His production, leadership, and consistency have kept him firmly in the national spotlight as the NFL moves deeper into a new era of high-powered offenses.
Stay with us as we break down Garrett’s latest achievements, his Defensive Player of the Year impact, and what his dominance means for Cleveland moving forward.
Follow along for more in-depth NFL coverage and player analysis as the offseason unfolds.
A Defensive Player of the Year Standard
Myles Garrett captured the NFL Defensive Player of the Year award following the 2023 season, becoming the first player in Cleveland Browns history to earn the honor. That season, he delivered one of the most complete defensive performances in franchise history, consistently pressuring quarterbacks and anchoring one of the league’s top-ranked defenses.
Garrett’s performance that year included double-digit sacks, numerous tackles for loss, and constant quarterback hits that shifted momentum in critical games. His ability to wreck offensive game plans week after week separated him from the rest of the field.
Defensive Player of the Year recognition placed him in elite company alongside some of the greatest defenders in league history. It also validated what Browns fans had witnessed since his arrival in 2017: a generational edge rusher capable of changing games on his own.
Leadership Beyond the Stat Sheet
While statistics tell part of the story, Garrett’s influence extends far beyond sacks and tackles.
Coaches consistently highlight his preparation and football IQ. Teammates point to his work ethic and presence in the locker room. Offensive coordinators design entire protection schemes specifically to slow him down.
Even when he doesn’t record a sack, Garrett affects the game. Double teams open opportunities for other defenders. Quick throws forced by pressure disrupt timing. Holding penalties pile up as linemen struggle to contain him.
That kind of impact rarely shows up fully in box scores, but it defines elite defensive play.
Building a Hall of Fame Résumé
Since entering the NFL as the top overall pick in the 2017 Draft, Garrett has delivered season after season of high-level production. He reached major career sack milestones faster than most edge rushers in modern history and has earned multiple Pro Bowl selections along with All-Pro recognition.
Through his career, he has consistently ranked among league leaders in sacks and quarterback pressures. His combination of speed, power, and technique makes him nearly impossible to block one-on-one.
At just 30 years old, Garrett remains in his prime. His trajectory places him on a path that analysts frequently describe as Hall of Fame caliber if he maintains his current pace.
Impact on the Cleveland Browns
Cleveland’s defensive identity revolves around Myles Garrett.
In recent seasons, the Browns have fielded one of the NFL’s top defenses, finishing near the top of the league in yards allowed and pass defense. Garrett serves as the foundation of that success.
Opposing quarterbacks know they must account for him on every snap. Offensive tackles often receive tight end or running back help to slow him down. That attention creates opportunities for teammates across the defensive front.
Garrett’s presence has helped Cleveland remain competitive in the ultra-challenging AFC North, where defensive battles often determine playoff positioning.
How Myles Garrett Elevates Big Games
Elite players shine brightest under pressure, and Garrett has repeatedly delivered in high-stakes matchups.
Whether facing division rivals or playoff contenders, he has consistently produced sacks, forced fumbles, and drive-ending plays at pivotal moments. His ability to rise to the occasion reinforces why he earned Defensive Player of the Year honors.
In nationally televised games, Garrett often commands the spotlight. Broadcasters regularly highlight his explosiveness off the line of scrimmage and his rare closing speed for a player of his size.
He doesn’t just fill stat sheets—he swings momentum.
Technique Meets Athleticism
What separates Myles Garrett from other talented edge rushers is his versatility.
He wins with speed around the edge.
He wins with power through blockers.
He wins with hand technique and leverage.
Garrett studies offensive linemen carefully, adjusting his approach throughout games. If a tackle oversets, he counters inside. If blockers sit back to defend speed, he bull-rushes through contact.
That adaptability keeps offensive coordinators guessing and makes him effective against a wide variety of protection schemes.
Durability and Consistency
Another key to Garrett’s sustained success has been availability.
While NFL careers often include fluctuations due to injury or performance dips, Garrett has maintained a high level of play year after year. He continues to log heavy snap counts while delivering strong production deep into seasons.
Consistency separates great players from legends. Garrett’s ability to maintain elite output across multiple seasons strengthens his long-term legacy.
The AFC North Factor
Playing in the AFC North means facing physical offensive lines and run-heavy schemes. It also means battling quarterbacks who can extend plays outside the pocket.
Garrett has embraced that challenge.
Against divisional opponents, he frequently records impact plays that swing field position and disrupt rhythm. His familiarity with rival offensive schemes allows him to anticipate protections and exploit weaknesses.
Those battles only add to his reputation as one of the most complete defensive players in the league.
Community and Off-Field Presence
Beyond football, Garrett remains active in community initiatives throughout Northeast Ohio. He has supported literacy programs, youth outreach efforts, and charitable events that reflect his commitment to the region.
His personality also resonates with fans. Known for his diverse interests, including poetry and paleontology, Garrett breaks the mold of the traditional NFL star.
That multidimensional profile makes him one of the league’s most recognizable and respected figures.
What Comes Next for Myles Garrett?
As the NFL shifts into the offseason, attention turns to roster building and championship aspirations. For Cleveland, everything defensively starts with Myles Garrett.
If he continues producing at his current pace, additional accolades could follow. More Pro Bowl selections. More All-Pro honors. Possibly even another Defensive Player of the Year campaign.
For now, one thing remains clear: Garrett stands firmly among the NFL’s defensive elite.
His relentless drive, physical gifts, and football intelligence ensure that opposing offenses will keep losing sleep preparing for him.
Follow our coverage throughout the offseason for deeper insights into the Browns’ strategy and Garrett’s continued impact.
What do you think is next for Myles Garrett — another Defensive Player of the Year run or a deep playoff push? Share your thoughts below and stay tuned for more updates.