Myles Garrett Trade Shakes NFL: Rams Land Superstar, Browns Rebuild

The Los Angeles Rams have stunned the NFL world with a blockbuster trade, acquiring star pass rusher Myles Garrett from the Cleveland Browns as part of a deal finalized just ahead of the 2026 offseason. Multiple ESPN reports confirm the Rams will send rookie edge rusher Jared Verse, a 2027 first-round draft pick, and additional draft compensation to Cleveland in exchange for one of the league’s premier defensive talents.

This trade marks one of the most significant player moves of the offseason, instantly altering both teams’ trajectories as they prepare for the new season. The Rams, who have been searching for elite defensive playmakers, now add a proven All-Pro to their arsenal, while the Browns pivot toward a rebuild centered around young talent and future assets.

• The Rams receive Myles Garrett, a four-time Pro Bowler and 2023 Defensive Player of the Year finalist
• The Browns acquire Jared Verse, the 2026 first-round pick, plus additional draft choices
• This trade is the first major move tracked by ESPN's 2026 NFL offseason trade tracker

ESPN’s Rich Eisen, reacting to the news, pointed out the aggressive intent behind the Rams’ move:

The deal was first reported as being finalized, with sources indicating the Browns and Rams hammered out the terms that would send Garrett west. The inclusion of Jared Verse, a promising rookie, gives Cleveland a potential cornerstone for its defensive front, while the draft picks set the stage for longer-term roster development.

ESPN’s trade tracker notes that the Garrett deal is the opening salvo in what’s expected to be a busy offseason for player movement. The Rams, who finished outside the playoff picture in 2025, are sending a clear message to the rest of the league. With Garrett now paired alongside Aaron Donald on the Rams’ defensive line, Los Angeles becomes a formidable force in the NFC.

• Garrett’s 2025 stats: 15.5 sacks, 31 quarterback hits, 4 forced fumbles (Pro-Football-Reference stats)
• Verse recorded 6.0 sacks and 11 tackles for loss in his rookie campaign
• The Rams’ defense ranked 19th overall in 2025; Browns were 7th in sacks

Pat McAfee reacted live to the deal, underscoring the magnitude of the move for the Rams and excitement among NFL fans. While his commentary resonated with the boldness of the trade, the consensus across analysts is that Los Angeles is making a win-now push, sacrificing future assets for present star power.

For the Browns, the trade signals an organizational shift. By moving Garrett, they free up cap space and accumulate valuable draft assets, positioning themselves for a rebuild. Jared Verse, although a rookie, showed flashes of high-level play and could develop into a key contributor alongside other young Browns defenders.

With the 2026 NFL season approaching, this deal sets the tone for a dynamic offseason and intensifies the arms race among top contenders. The Rams’ gamble on Garrett could reshape the NFC landscape, while the Browns look to build a new era with fresh talent and future picks. As more trades unfold, all eyes will be on how these two franchises capitalize on their bold decisions.