Rumours then began circling about his future, prompting some fans to suggest a blockbuster trade could be on the table.
But those closest to the situation insist that couldn’t be further from the truth.
Insiders say the Browns are ‘adamant’ they have no intention of trading their defensive talisman, despite the noise building online.
NFL Network Insider Mike Garafolo said the trade rumors have “nothing to do with the motivation for what they did in his contract.”
Garafolo added: “It was not on the table last year. It is not on the table again this year. … The Browns are saying they’re not gonna trade him, and they’ve promised us that we’re not gonna look dumb if we say that. So we’ll see.”
The contract changes themselves are understood to be purely financial, given both the player and the team more flexibility moving forward.
Garrett’s option bonuses, previously locked into early deadlines, have now been pushed back closer to the start of each season.
That tweak allows the Browns more room to manoeuvre under the salary cap, while also benefiting Garrett in how and when he receives payments.
Additional changes see money from the final years of his deal shifted into earlier roster bonuses – another move designed to balance flexibility on both sides.
Despite the routine nature of the restructure, it didn’t take long for speculation to spiral.
Garrett has been here before.
The 29-year-old made headlines last year when he openly pushed for a move, admitting he wanted to compete for a Super Bowl during his prime years.
That situation eventually cooled when Cleveland handed him a massive four-year, $160 million extension to keep him in Ohio.
He responded in emphatic fashion.
Garrett went on to deliver one of the best seasons of his career, racking up a record-breaking 23 sacks on his way to landing Defensive Player of the Year honours.
It marked the second time he’s picked up the award, underlining his status as one of the most dominant defenders in the league.
History now looks set to repeat itself, with league insiders making it clear that, like last year, a Garrett trade is not even being considered.
The Browns are said to be fully committed to building around their defensive cornerstone as they look to turn things around.
For now, despite the speculation, Garrett isn’t going anywhere.
The Browns are said to be fully committed to building around their defensive cornerstone as they look to turn things around.
For now, despite the speculation, Garrett isn’t going anywhere.
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