The New England Patriots have been at the center of numerous trade rumors, with Cleveland Browns star defensive end Myles Garrett being one of their most high-profile targets. Amid ongoing contract disputes and trade speculation, it seemed Garrett was on the verge of leaving Cleveland.
However, instead of being traded, Garrett secured a massive four-year extension worth $40 million annually, with $123.5 million guaranteed, per ESPN’s Adam Schefter. The deal includes a no-trade clause, officially shutting down any rumors of his departure.
The Patriots, desperate for a pass-rushing boost after struggling in that department last season, will now have to explore other options via free agency, the draft, or the trade market. They’ve been linked to prospects like Abdul Carter and Mason Graham, along with free agents such as Haason Reddick and Wilton Williams.
Coming off his fifth straight Pro Bowl season, Garrett recorded 47 tackles, 22 tackles for loss, 14 sacks, and three forced fumbles, earning First-Team All-Pro honors for the fourth time. Now the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history, he remains a dominant force in Cleveland.
While Garrett would have been a game-changer in New England, the Patriots must now shift their focus elsewhere to revamp their defensive front.
