Browns trade Garrett to Rams in major roster overhaul

The Cleveland Browns have completed a significant roster restructuring by trading two-time NFL Defensive Player of the Year Myles Garrett to the Los Angeles Rams. The transaction marks a pivotal shift for the franchise, ending the tenure of a cornerstone player who recently broke the NFL sack record and secured his second Defensive Player of the Year award.

In exchange for Garrett, the Browns have acquired Los Angeles Rams pass rusher Jared Verse, who was named the 2024 NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year. The compensation package also includes a 2027 NFL Draft first-round pick and additional unspecified compensation. The deal follows persistent rumours regarding the restructuring of Garrett’s roster bonus, which had reportedly been moved to the start of the regular season in recent months.

The acquisition of Verse provides Cleveland with a younger, cost-controlled defensive talent while allowing the team to retain substantial draft flexibility. According to reports, the Browns will maintain 11 picks in the 2027 draft, including two first-round selections, three fourth-round picks, two fifth-round selections, and two seventh-round picks. This structure is designed to support a rebuild while integrating a proven defensive playmaker.

For the Los Angeles Rams, the move represents a strategic effort to bolster their defence ahead of Super Bowl LXI, scheduled to be held at SoFi Stadium. The acquisition of Garrett, a player widely regarded as the best pass rusher of his generation, aligns with the Rams' objective to strengthen their roster for a championship contention window.

The trade concludes a period of uncertainty that began last offseason when Garrett previously requested a trade but ultimately received a contract extension. The finalisation of this deal resolves those lingering questions, though it leaves the Browns to manage the transition of a franchise-altering asset and address the implications for their offensive line construction.