Browns sound ready for lengthy standoff with Myles Garrett

During Super Bowl week media appearances, Cleveland Browns wantaway pass-rusher Myles Garrett made it clear that he is "willing to do whatever it takes" to receive his desired trade to a Super Bowl contender. 

While speaking with reporters at the NFL combine on Tuesday, Browns general manager Andrew Berry seemed to deliver quite a message to Garrett and teams interested in landing the All-Pro before the 2025 draft. 

"He’s a huge part of our organization," Berry said about Garrett, Myles Simmons of Pro Football Talk sharedd. "Really good person. He’s an awesome player. Understand the trade request and everything, but our stance really has not changed. Can’t imagine a situation where not having Myles as a part of the organization is best for the Browns." 

It was reported earlier this month that the Browns "are prepared to exercise patience and let this play out as long as possible," to the point that they won't trade Garrett even if he threatens to sit regular-season games out during the 2025 season. He is under contract through the 2026 season, and his deal does not include a no-trade clause.

"I wouldn’t really touch on any conversations that I’ve had with other teams, just respectfully," Berry said about other clubs reaching out to the Browns regarding Garrett's availability this winter. "I don’t think that’s appropriate, just for current and future business. But it’s irrelevant to this situation because we’re not interested in moving Myles. We don’t have interest in trading Myles. He’s a big part of our team." 

Berry was expected to take such a defiant stance in an alleged pursuit of "the best possible trade of Garrett" that would fetch the Browns "the most assets in return." Some who cover the team have said that Berry and head coach Kevin Stefanski truly believe Cleveland can make a second trip to the playoffs in three years if it finds an upgrade at quarterback and keeps Garrett this offseason. However, others have suggested Berry is simply waiting to receive a so-called "'Godfather' offer" for the 29-year-old who doesn't have a ton of leverage considering his contract situation.