Cleveland Browns’ standout defensive end Myles Garrett was stopped for driving 100 miles per hour in a 60 mph zone just hours after Cleveland’s preseason game against the Carolina Panthers. The incident occurred early on Saturday morning on Interstate 71 in Strongsville, Ohio, near the Browns’ team facility in Berea.
Details Surrounding the Speeding Citation and Legal Consequences
Police reports state Garrett’s Ferrari was pulled over shortly after 2 a.m., resulting in a speeding ticket. He was instructed to appear in court on the following Thursday but can avoid a court appearance by paying a $250 fine. This marks another infraction in Garrett’s long history of speeding violations since joining the Browns in 2017.
Previous Traffic Violations and Past Accident Highlight Driving Risks
Garrett, now 29 years old, has accumulated at least seven prior speeding tickets, including a previous instance where he was cited twice in a single day for driving at speeds of 120 mph and 105 mph. Additionally, he has been charged with reckless operation of a motor vehicle in the past. In September 2022, Garrett was involved in a serious accident when his Porsche flipped multiple times, leading to medical treatment for both him and a passenger.
Garrett Reflects on Past Driving Incidents
After the rollover crash last year, Garrett acknowledged the seriousness of his actions, stating,
“This will be definitely a wake-up call for me, just try to be smart overall with driving,”
followed by,
“Don’t take anything for granted. Be grateful that I’m still able to be here and just take my time.”
—Myles Garrett, Cleveland Browns defensive end
Garrett’s On-Field Success Amid Off-Field Challenges
Recognized as the 2023 NFL Defensive Player of the Year, Garrett secured a four-year, $160 million contract extension this offseason, which initially positioned him as the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history. However, Bengals receiver Ja’Marr Chase and Steelers pass rusher T.J. Watt have since surpassed that distinction. Last season, Garrett achieved his fifth consecutive Pro Bowl selection by recording 14 sacks and a league-leading 22 tackles for loss, with 102.5 career sacks ranking eighth among active players.
Similar Speeding Issues Within the Browns Organization
The Browns have seen other speeding citations this offseason, including two issued to rookie quarterback Shedeur Sanders. Garrett’s latest citation adds to a concerning pattern for the organization regarding player driving behavior.