Myles Garrett Joins Rams in Surprising Trade

The Cleveland Browns made headlines by trading star edge-rusher Myles Garrett to the Los Angeles Rams, a move few anticipated. Initially, there were denials about Garrett’s availability, but this blockbuster trade brings significant changes to both teams.

Fans were initially informed that the Browns would receive 2024 Defensive Rookie of the Year Jared Verse along with draft pick compensation. After further analysis, the official trade details have been clarified. As confirmed by ESPN’s Adam Schefter, the Rams are acquiring Garrett, an esteemed seven-time Pro Bowler, five-time first-team All-Pro, two-time second-team All-Pro, and two-time NFL Defensive Player of the Year. Meanwhile, the Browns gain Jared Verse, a two-time Pro Bowler, in addition to future draft picks, specifically a first-round selection in 2027, a second in 2028, and a third in 2029.

This trade continues a trend for the Rams, who have skipped a first-round draft pick in nine of the past twelve drafts. Since 2016, their only first-round selections were Jared Goff, traded in 2020 for Matthew Stafford, Verse in 2024, and Ty Simpson, the 13th pick this year.

Both Schefter and Ian Rapoport from ESPN/NFL Network have highlighted the impact of Verse’s inclusion in the trade. His presence prompted a reassessment from the Browns about trading Garrett. Rapoport explained, “When Jared Verse was suddenly in the deal, the picks got moved around a little bit, it got to a point where the two teams said, ‘You know what, this could actually happen.’” The Rams’ persistence in pursuing Garrett paid off, marking a significant achievement for Les Snead and Coach Sean McVay.

Though Verse has yet to reach Garrett’s level, his performance is notable. Last season, the 25-year-old was second in the NFL for pressures among edge-rushers, totaling 100, just behind Houston Texans’ Will Anderson Jr.’s 102. Verse also led all edge-rushers in QB hits with 27 and ranked third in hurries with 64. His impressive stats include 7.5 sacks, 11 tackles for loss, and a 16.1 pass-rush win-rate according to Pro Football Focus.