Texas A&M legend Myles Garrett has signed a record-breaking contract extension with the Cleveland Browns, securing his future.

In the world of professional sports, few achievements are as notable as a player securing a record-breaking contract extension, particularly when that player has already made a name for themselves as one of the most dominant forces in the league. Myles Garrett, the standout defensive end and Texas A&M legend, has done just that. The Cleveland Browns have extended Garrett’s contract with a deal that not only reaffirms his status as one of the premier players in the NFL but also ensures his place at the forefront of the Browns’ defense for years to come. The deal is record-breaking, not just in terms of its financials but also in the sheer impact Garrett has had on the game. This extension is the culmination of a career built on elite talent, hard work, and determination, and it sets the stage for the next chapter of Garrett’s legendary journey.

In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into Garrett’s career, from his early days at Texas A&M to his rise in the NFL, exploring his growth, the impact of his record-breaking contract extension, and what the future holds for one of football’s brightest stars.

Early Days at Texas A&M

Before Myles Garrett became one of the most feared defensive players in the NFL, he was dominating as a defensive end at Texas A&M University. Garrett’s journey to prominence began in high school, where he was already making waves as a highly rated recruit. His combination of size, speed, and athleticism caught the attention of top college programs across the country, but it was Texas A&M that ultimately secured his commitment.

At Texas A&M, Garrett quickly established himself as one of the most disruptive and talented defensive players in college football. From his freshman year, Garrett’s dominance was undeniable. In his first season (2014), he totaled 11.5 sacks, breaking a school record and earning SEC Freshman of the Year honors. Garrett’s ability to rush the passer and his overall versatility made him a nightmare for opposing offensive lines. His impact on the field was immediate, and by his sophomore year, he was widely regarded as one of the top players in the nation.

Garrett’s success at Texas A&M was not only a testament to his individual talent but also to his work ethic and discipline. He was relentless on the field, constantly pushing himself to improve his technique and expand his skill set. By the time Garrett declared for the 2017 NFL Draft, he was considered a generational talent, with many analysts projecting him to be the No. 1 overall pick. He finished his college career with 32 sacks, 141 total tackles, and numerous accolades, establishing himself as one of the most decorated defensive players in recent SEC history.

Entering the NFL: A Star in the Making

Garrett’s transition to the NFL was seamless. In the 2017 NFL Draft, the Cleveland Browns selected him as the first overall pick, signaling their commitment to building their defense around his unique skill set. Garrett’s immediate impact on the NFL was felt as he quickly became one of the most dominant defensive ends in the league.

In his rookie season, Garrett posted 7 sacks and 31 tackles despite missing part of the season due to injury. His ability to rush the passer, disrupt plays in the backfield, and set the tone for the defense was evident from the start. Over the following seasons, Garrett continued to develop his game, becoming a complete defensive player who could impact all aspects of a game, from sacking the quarterback to batting down passes and making critical stops against the run.

One of the defining moments of Garrett’s career came during the 2020 season, where he posted 12 sacks and helped the Browns make a playoff appearance for the first time in years. Garrett’s performance was instrumental in the Browns’ defensive resurgence, as he was not only a consistent pass rusher but also a leader on the field. His ability to dominate against some of the best offensive lines in the league, coupled with his relentless motor and leadership, solidified his reputation as one of the league’s top defensive players.

Over the course of his career, Garrett has made multiple Pro Bowl appearances, been named an All-Pro, and has been recognized as one of the most disruptive forces on the field. His combination of speed, power, and football IQ has allowed him to be a consistent force for the Cleveland Browns. But it’s not just his physical tools that have made Garrett one of the best; it’s his mentality and determination to be the best in the game.

The Record-Breaking Contract Extension

On the heels of several dominant seasons, Myles Garrett’s status as one of the NFL’s premier pass rushers was reaffirmed with a historic contract extension signed in 2025. The Cleveland Browns made a significant investment in Garrett, locking him in as the centerpiece of their defense for the long term. The extension not only secured Garrett’s future with the Browns but also set a new benchmark for defensive contracts in the NFL.

The details of Garrett’s contract extension are staggering. The deal, worth an eye-popping $220 million over six years, made Garrett the highest-paid defensive player in NFL history at the time of signing. This contract extension speaks volumes about Garrett’s importance to the team, both as a player and as a leader. With his new contract, Garrett’s position as the face of the Cleveland Browns’ defense is solidified, and he is now positioned to help guide the franchise to sustained success.

What makes this contract extension particularly significant is that it’s not just about the financials. While the money is undoubtedly a reflection of Garrett’s elite status in the NFL, it also speaks to the faith that the Browns have placed in him to be the leader of their defense for the foreseeable future. The Browns have long struggled to find consistency and success, but with Garrett as the cornerstone of their defense, they are hoping to turn the page and build a championship-contending team. Garrett’s contract is an investment in that future—one where he plays a central role in elevating the team to new heights.

The Impact of the Contract Extension

The record-breaking contract extension has immediate and long-term implications for both Garrett and the Cleveland Browns. For Garrett, the deal provides financial security and solidifies his status as one of the most accomplished defensive players in NFL history. It also gives him the opportunity to continue building his legacy with the Browns, who have positioned themselves as a team on the rise. Garrett’s extension ensures that he will be the face of the franchise, carrying the mantle of leadership and playing a pivotal role in their pursuit of a Super Bowl.

From a team perspective, the contract extension is an investment in the future. The Browns have made significant strides in recent years, but they are still in the process of building a championship-caliber roster. Garrett’s presence on the field is invaluable to that process. As the team’s premier pass rusher, Garrett is a game-changer who can single-handedly alter the course of a game. His ability to disrupt quarterbacks, generate pressure, and set the tone for the defense is something the Browns can’t afford to lose. By locking him in for the long term, the Browns are signaling their commitment to building around Garrett as they aim to build a consistent contender in the NFL.

Garrett’s Legacy and What’s Next

As Myles Garrett enters the next phase of his career with the Cleveland Browns, the focus will shift to what he can accomplish in the years to come. Garrett’s legacy as one of the most talented and dominant pass rushers in NFL history is already solidified. However, his journey is far from over. With the new contract extension in hand, Garrett has the opportunity to further cement his place among the all-time greats.

In the short term, Garrett will continue to be a leader on the field, pushing for a Super Bowl and helping the Browns reach the pinnacle of the NFL. His consistency and dominance as a pass rusher will remain a key component of the Browns’ defensive strategy. In the long term, Garrett has the potential to rewrite the record books. With his combination of size, speed, and athleticism, it’s entirely possible that Garrett could surpass career milestones that place him among the greatest defensive players in NFL history. If he can continue to stay healthy and maintain his level of play, Garrett has the potential to become a Hall of Famer and one of the all-time sack leaders in the NFL.

Beyond the on-field accomplishments, Garrett has also built a reputation as a leader and a mentor in the locker room. His commitment to his craft, his work ethic, and his ability to inspire his teammates have made him one of the most respected figures in the league. As the Browns continue to build their roster, Garrett’s leadership will be crucial to their success. His influence extends beyond just the field; it shapes the culture of the team and helps create a winning mentality that can carry the Browns to new heights.