Breaking News: Myles Garrett Signs Record-Breaking $160M Extension with Browns, Solidifying His Position as the NFL's Highest-Paid Defensive Player

The Cleveland Browns have made a statement in the NFL by signing defensive end Myles Garrett to a massive 4-year, $160 million extension. The deal, which was finalized on [Date], cements Garrett's status as the league's highest-paid defensive player, and his salary now surpasses that of quarterbacks like Russell Wilson and Jimmy Garoppolo. The extension is a testament to Garrett's dominance on the field, his marketability off the field, and the Browns' commitment to building a winning team in the coming years.

The contract extension is a culmination of Garrett's hard work and dedication to the sport. Since entering the league in 2017, Garrett has established himself as one of the most feared pass-rushers in the NFL, recording over 30 sacks in each of his first three seasons. His impressive performances have earned him numerous accolades, including the NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year award in 2017 and the Pro Bowl selection.

The Browns, who have been rebuilding their team over the past few years, are confident that Garrett's extension will help them compete with the league's top teams. The team's front office, led by General Manager Andrew Berry, has been actively pursuing ways to improve the roster and make a deep playoff run. The signing of Garrett to a long-term contract is a significant step in that direction.

What Does the Extension Mean for Myles Garrett?

The new extension will keep Garrett in Cleveland for the next four years, through the 2026 season. The contract includes a no-trade clause, which means that Garrett will have significant input in determining where he plays in the event of a trade. The deal also includes a $40 million signing bonus, which will be paid out over the next two years.

• Garrett's new contract has a cap hit of $32 million per year, making him one of the highest-paid defensive players in the league.
• The extension includes an average annual salary of $40 million, with the total value of the contract reaching $160 million.
• Garrett will have a guaranteed $120 million in the event that he is released by the Browns before the end of the contract.
• The contract also includes a voidable year, which means that Garrett will receive a full $20 million bonus if he plays in at least 16 games in 2023.

What Does the Extension Mean for the Browns?

The signing of Garrett to a long-term contract is a significant development for the Browns, who are looking to build a winning team in the coming years. The team's front office has been actively pursuing ways to improve the roster, and the signing of Garrett is a major step in that direction.

• The Browns will now have a clear cap situation for the next four years, allowing them to focus on building a strong supporting cast around Garrett.
• The signing of Garrett will also help to establish the Browns as a legitimate playoff contender, which will likely increase interest in the team and its players.
• The contract will also give the Browns a sense of security, allowing them to plan for the future and make strategic decisions about the roster.

Impact on the NFL Salary Cap

The signing of Garrett to a $160 million extension has significant implications for the NFL salary cap. The contract is one of the largest in league history, and it will likely set a new standard for defensive players.

• The contract's cap hit of $32 million per year will be one of the highest in the league, and it will likely force other teams to make significant concessions in order to keep their players.
• The extension will also give Garrett a significant advantage in terms of contract value, and it will likely set a new benchmark for defensive players.
• The signing of Garrett will also increase the salary cap, which will likely lead to a more competitive market for players and a more intense free agency period.

Industry Reaction

The signing of Garrett to a $160 million extension has been met with widespread praise from industry insiders and media outlets.

• ESPN's Dan Graziano noted that Garrett's extension is "a monster deal" that sets a new standard for defensive players.
• NFL Network's Mike Garafolo called the contract "a $160 million gross" that will make Garrett one of the highest-paid defensive players in league history.
• Sports Illustrated's Jon Robinson noted that the extension is a testament to Garrett's marketability and his ability to generate revenue for the Browns.

Comparison to Other Players

Garrett's extension is one of the largest in league history, and it puts him in a unique category among NFL players.

• The contract surpasses the deals signed by quarterbacks Russell Wilson and Jimmy Garoppolo, who are both among the highest-paid players in the league.
• Garrett's extension also surpasses the deals signed by other high-profile defensive players, including Aaron Donald and J.J. Watt.
• The contract's value is equivalent to about 2.5 times Garrett's 2022 salary, making it one of the most lucrative deals in NFL history.

What's Next for the Browns?

The signing of Garrett to a $160 million extension is just the latest development in the Browns' efforts to build a winning team. The team is still looking to add key pieces to the roster, including a quarterback and a defensive back.

• The Browns will likely focus on building a strong supporting cast around Garrett, which will include players at positions like wide receiver, tight end, and running back.
• The team will also need to address its defensive needs, including signing a quarterback and adding key pieces to the secondary.
• The signing of Garrett will give the Browns a sense of security, allowing them to plan for the future and make strategic decisions about the roster.

Conclusion

The signing of Myles Garrett to a $160 million extension is a significant development for the