Myles Garrett Will Stay a Cleveland Brown — an Extremely Well-Paid One

Just when we needed it the most, Cleveland Browns fans get some good news. 

Myles Garett signed an extension Sunday that keeps him in Cleveland through the 2030 season, according to a report from ESPN. The star defensive end becomes the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history.  The deal comes out to $40 million per year, on average, and includes $123.5 million guaranteed. It also includes a no-trade clause.

The deal is a bit of surprise.

Garrett requested a trade in February. Since then, especially through Super Bowl week, he spoke publicly about his desire to leave Cleveland. Garrett expressed that he did not want to be part of a rebuild. Meanwhile, Browns general manager Andrew Berry continued to state that the team would not trade Garrett. 

"At this current time, I don't feel like our future is aligned with winning right now, and that's what i'm looking forward to do at this state in my career," says Garrett. "I have a lot of love for Northeast Ohio and the community that brought me into this league, but I want to get to contending and winning playoff games and having a chance to compete in games like (the Super Bowl)."

Since then, running back Nick Chubb, a beloved figure in Cleveland, announced his desire to test the waters of free agency. Most recently, owner Jimmy Haslam refused Garrett's request to meet for a conversation, according to reports this week. The deal reportedly got done after a 36-hour negotiation. 

Hopefully, the return of this future Hall of Fame player can breathe some life into the fan base, the team and the players who are considering their own futures with the Cleveland Browns. 

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