Even as the Browns endured struggles during the 2024 season, Garrett still found a high level of success on the field. Not only did he finish the season with 14 sacks – second in the NFL – he also faced a league-high rate of double teams and chip blocks. He was double teamed on a career-high 30 percent of pass rush attempts, but found a way to still apply ample pressure. He totaled a league-high 22 tackles for loss and 84 quarterback hits – the third most in the league.

Yet, following a disappointing season in which the Browns finished with a 3-14 record, Garrett released a statement on Feb. 3 in which he requested a trade. In that statement, he expressed a desire to win.

He had conversations with Executive Vice President of Football Operations and General Manager Andrew Berry during routine exit interviews following the season which both sides expressed frustrations about the results of the 2024 season as well as aspirations to win. Berry has reiterated his commitment to returning to winning in 2025 and has believed Garrett plays an integral role in achieving that goal.

With a new extension in place through 2030, Garrett is poised to lead the Browns to those wins and the defense to high levels of success for the foreseeable future.