After demanding a trade in February over Cleveland’s status as a non-contender, Myles Garrett signed a $160 million extension in March, making him the highest-paid non-quarterback in the NFL. At training camp, Garrett boldly stated,
“I expect to get to the Super Bowl”
—Myles Garrett, Defensive End. This declaration serves as both motivation and a warning that the team must win immediately. With a defense that earned an 82.2 PFF grade, much better than the league’s worst offense (62.1 PFF), Garrett’s success depends on the offense improving substantially.
The Challenge Facing Rookie QB Shedeur Sanders
Shedeur Sanders faces a steep challenge as he competes for a roster spot as Cleveland’s fourth-string quarterback behind Kenny Pickett, Joe Flacco, and Dillon Gabriel. Cleveland seldom keeps four quarterbacks, so Sanders must outperform Pickett, who holds a $2.6 million guaranteed contract, to secure his position. Given Garrett’s demand to contend now, the coaching staff is inclined to favor experience over development, leaving little room for the rookie’s mistakes.
Garrett’s Impact on Team Dynamics and Offense
Though Garrett insists he will not interfere in quarterback decisions, his high standards are clearly felt throughout the locker room. He criticized the team’s “really bad year” last season and emphasized that
“everyone chasing higher standards daily”
—Myles Garrett, Defensive End. These comments indirectly point to an offense that struggled with only 17.1 points per game last season, ranked 30th in the league. Sanders will have to navigate this pressure while working with a receiver group led by Diontae Johnson, who played for three teams in 2024, and rookie Quinshon Judkins.
The Difficult Balance Between Experience and Youth in Cleveland’s Offense
Although Sanders’ performance during training camp has impressed coaches, Garrett’s timeline to win clashes with the usual growing pains of a rookie quarterback paired with a rookie wide receiver. Analysts view this tandem as a difficult experiment during Garrett’s “all-in” year. However, as analyst Barnwell notes, Sanders has
“no better time”
—Barnwell, Analyst to prove himself, since Cleveland’s quarterback situation will likely stabilize only in 2026 when top prospects like Arch Manning enter the draft.
Future Outlook and Stakes for Garrett and Sanders
Garrett’s contract includes a no-trade clause, but this is seen as a temporary fix for his concerns about contention. If Sanders or the offense fails to improve, Garrett’s frustration could lead to renewed trade demands by the deadline. According to Fox Sports, Cleveland’s 3-14 team saw
“no talent infusion”
—Fox Sports, Sports Network beyond draft picks this offseason, making Sanders’ development crucial for retaining the team’s defensive cornerstone. For Sanders, failure to perform may result in a move to the CFL, where Toronto holds his rights. For Garrett, another losing season risks reigniting trade talks and a possible full team rebuild.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. How long is Myles Garrett’s suspension?
A. Garrett later said sorry for what he did. He called his actions “foolish” and “not like him,” and he thanked the players who supported him. The following day, the NFL suspended Garrett without a set end date, but at least for the rest of the 2019 season.
Q. What happened to Myles Garrett’s eyeball?
A. Garrett mentioned, “I believe it was the very first play where I removed my visor.” It was raining, and at first, my vision got a little blurry. Then, after he hit my eye, it became much worse and darker.
Q. What happened to Myles Garrett’s eye?
A. The following day, the NFL suspended Garrett for an unknown length of time, but at least for the rest of the 2019 season. He also received a fine of $45,623, while Rudolph was fined $50,000. An additional 33 players were fined $3,000 each for entering an area where a fight occurred. Both the Browns and Steelers teams faced fines of $250,000 each.
Q. What happened to Myles Garrett’s eyes?
A. Thuney seemed to scratch Garrett’s face, possibly touching his eye. Garrett took off his helmet and lay face down on the ground while Mahomes signaled for medical help. Garrett then stood up and headed straight to the locker room for more checks.