Browns Restructure Garrett's Contract, Ease Trade Rumors

0:00On March 26, the Cleveland Browns now have over $21 million in salary cap space after tweaking Miles Garrett's contract. The star defensive end, last year's defensive player of the year, agreed to push back his option bonuses for 2026 through 20. 28. Instead of due by mid-March each year, they're now set seven days before the regular season starts. This change gives the Browns more short-term flexibility while keeping Garrett on board through 2030. His four-year extension averages $40 million annually, and the restructure also converts some base salary into roster bonuses. Earlier this week, reports confirm the deal helps manage their cap without immediate big payouts. Fans and insiders note Garrett's frustration after the team hired Todd Monkin as head coach, passing on Jim Schwartz, who Garrett thrived under with. 23 sacks in one season. Despite a dominant year behind him, that coaching shift fueled early trade talk as Garrett wants a winner, not a rebuild.

1:01The new terms actually make trading him easier from a cap perspective. Analysts say it drops the hit for a potential buyer during the draft from over $70 million to about $41 million with the Browns. Owing nothing on salary, ideas like swapping him to the Detroit Lions for picks and a receiver have resurfaced. Still, Garrett's no-trade clause and his commitments are contending, keep things steady for now. Expect the rumors to simmer as the Browns focus on building a stronger defense around him.