Myles Garrett Faces Emotional Tug-of-War in Historic Sack Chase
For Browns superstar pass-rusher Myles Garrett, the 2025 season has been defined as much by internal conflict as by on-field dominance. The year began with Garrett in the midst of a trade demand, frustrated after Cleveland’s 3-win 2024 season. After eight years with the team and only three playoff appearances—with just one win—Garrett seemed ready to leave Cleveland behind and pursue opportunities elsewhere.
However, the Browns convinced him to stay with a record-setting $40 million-per-year contract, creating one of the NFL’s most dominant defenses in 2025. Garrett himself has produced one of the greatest individual defensive campaigns in league history. Entering the final stretch of the season, he has 21.5 sacks, just shy of Michael Strahan’s all-time record of 22.5.
Yet the conflict remains: while Garrett’s personal performance has been historic, the Browns are again mired in a losing season. Cleveland ranks last in offensive production, with a PFF grade of 54.7, far behind the Titans’ 62.5. Garrett is at the peak of his career, but he is doing so with a team that is struggling to compete.
Chasing Records vs. Chasing Wins
Garrett was recently asked about pursuing the sack record at home against the Bills and whether achieving it in front of Cleveland fans would soften the sting of another losing season. His response underscored the internal battle he has faced all year.
“Yeah, I want to get in front of the home fans,” Garrett said. “Most of all, I want to get the win. I don’t want it to be some emotional conflict between me getting a record and us losing or being behind at the end of the game. I want to share a joyous moment with everybody.”
For Garrett, personal milestones are meaningful—but only if they can be celebrated as part of a team victory.
A Formidable Opponent: Josh Allen and the Bills
That goal may not be easy. The Browns have only one win this season, a victory over Green Bay, while the Buffalo Bills are 10-4, riding a three-game winning streak, and led by league MVP Josh Allen.
“The guy’s unbelievable in what he can do at quarterback and with the ball,” Garrett said. “There’s no one like him. We’ll have to stop him, limit the running game, and try to make him one-dimensional—but that’s a hell of a dimension to try to shut down.”
Facing Allen is just another reminder of the uphill battle the Browns face. Garrett’s quest for a record is intertwined with the challenge of helping a struggling team compete at the highest level.
No Regrets, Only Focus
Despite the struggles and the losing record, Garrett has avoided public regrets about rescinding his trade demand. Instead, he focuses on making the Browns the best team possible, appreciating the support of the Cleveland fan base through seasons of highs and lows.
“I am here. I’m happy to be here,” Garrett said. “I’m happy to play in front of fans who have supported me through everything, the ups and downs, and my entire career with the Browns. For them to still show up, show energy, and support us—it means a lot. I hope they continue to be a part of this ride.”
For Garrett, the 2025 season is a balancing act: chasing history while chasing a win that would make that history truly meaningful. It’s a reminder that even the greatest individual achievements are sweeter when shared with teammates and fans.
