The Cleveland Browns traded defensive end Myles Garrett to the Los Angeles Rams on June 1, 2026 [1].
The move signals a major shift for both franchises as the Rams aggressively bolster their pass rush for a Super Bowl push in the 2026 season. For Cleveland, the trade provides a younger defensive presence and significant future assets to rebuild their roster.
Garrett enters Los Angeles as a two-time Defensive Player of the Year [2]. His contract carries a value of approximately $160 million [3]. The deal represents a rare transaction involving a player of his caliber, as the Rams sought to secure a premier edge rusher to anchor their defense.
In exchange for Garrett, the Browns receive defensive end Jared Verse [4]. The trade package also includes three draft picks [5], which includes a 2027 first-round selection [6].
"Dealing a reigning DPOY is completely unprecedented," Jonathan Jones of Yahoo Sports said [7].
Reports indicate the Rams pursued the deal aggressively throughout the offseason. Staff at the New York Post said the Rams have hounded the Browns for Garrett after a series of telling offseason moves [8].
The acquisition of Garrett allows the Rams to maintain a high-pressure defensive front while the Browns pivot toward a younger core. By securing Verse and a first-round pick for 2027, Cleveland gains the flexibility to address multiple positions in the coming years.
“Dealing a reigning DPOY is completely unprecedented.”
This trade underscores the 'win-now' mentality of the Los Angeles Rams, who are willing to sacrifice young talent like Jared Verse and high-value draft capital for an established superstar. For the Cleveland Browns, moving a player of Garrett's stature suggests a strategic pivot toward a long-term rebuild, prioritizing draft assets and youth over immediate defensive dominance.
