Los Angeles Rams acquire Myles Garrett in blockbuster trade from Browns
The Los Angeles Rams have acquired two-time NFL Defensive Player of the Year Myles Garrett from the Cleveland Browns in a historic trade involving Defensive Rookie of the Year Jared Verse and three future draft picks.
Head coach Sean McVay described the opportunity to secure the star defensive end as a rare moment that required an aggressive approach.
The landmark agreement sees Los Angeles part ways with 2024 standout Verse, alongside a first-round selection in 2027, a second-rounder in 2028, and a third-round pick in 2029.
McVay compared the magnitude of the move to the franchise’s transformative 2021 trade for veteran quarterback Matthew Stafford.
A difficult decision for the star pass rusher
The trade caught the former first overall pick by surprise when he was informed of the possibility just over a week ago.
Holding a no-trade clause in his contract, the prolific edge rusher admitted he had to sleep on the decision before agreeing to waive his veto rights.
“I don’t take my time in Cleveland for granted. I did love being there,” the former Browns captain explained.
“It tears at you to leave and to break away, but that’s just a part of the things you learn and have to adjust to as you grow up and learn you have to move on.”
The chance to compete for championships immediately ultimately convinced the five-time Pro Bowler to swap Ohio for California.
“What does it realistically look like to be a winner now?” the new Rams signing added.
“And to have an opportunity to do that immediately, that was an opportunity that was just too difficult to pass up.”
Verse sacrifice and Donald rumours
Parting with a promising talent like Verse proved to be the most challenging aspect of the negotiations for the Los Angeles front office.
General manager Les Snead initially attempted to construct a package entirely comprised of future draft capital.
However, his Cleveland counterpart Andrew Berry refused to seriously entertain any proposals until the reigning defensive rookie of the year was included in the return.
The monumental acquisition has already sparked rampant speculation about a potential return to the gridiron for retired Rams legend Aaron Donald.
The future Hall of Fame defensive tackle, who stepped away from the sport in 2024 after ten dominant seasons, reportedly told media personnel that the move has given him something to think about.
McVay confirmed he remains in close contact with Donald and acknowledged the immense respect the retired great holds for his new defensive cornerstone.