The move to name Todd Monken as head coach over defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz sparked questions about Garrett’s commitment to Cleveland. Garrett and cornerback Denzel Ward publicly supported Schwartz, while Garrett has stayed quiet since the decision, pulled out of the Pro Bowl, and posted a cryptic meme that hinted at weariness with the situation.
Garrett previously demanded a trade ahead of last season, citing a desire to play for a contender. Although the Browns finished 5-12 and faced quarterback uncertainty, the team does not appear closer to Super Bowl contention, though the defense was a bright spot.
Mary Kay Cabot of cleveland.com reported that the Browns’ stance would be unchanged if Garrett asks to be traded again. Cleveland signed Garrett to a four-year contract last March worth about $40 million per year, with the intent of him finishing his career in Cleveland.
Garrett’s impact on the field was unmistakable. The defense finished No. 4 in yards allowed per game, and Garrett posted an NFL single-season record 23 sacks. After the season, he emphasized commitment to winning and warned against rebuilding or tanking.
On the quarterback front, Cleveland plans to evaluate all options. Shedeur Sanders is the early frontrunner after seven rookie starts, but GM Andrew Berry cautioned that nothing is locked in. The Browns will also consider the quarterback market, with Sanders, Dillon Gabriel, and Deshaun Watson under contract, and Sanders headed to the Pro Bowl Games alongside Ward.
