Myles Garrett

Myles Garrett: The Journey from Texas A&M to NFL Stardom

Imagine stepping onto the football field, ready to make your mark on the game. For Myles Garrett, that moment came early and with a bang. As a defensive end for the Cleveland Browns, he’s not just playing; he’s rewriting history books.

The Early Years

Garrett’s journey began in Arlington, Texas, where he was a triple-threat athlete—lettering in football, basketball, and track. His talent was undeniable from the start, earning him a five-star recruit rating by Rivals.com. But it wasn’t just his physical prowess that caught everyone’s eye; it was also his determination to succeed.

The Aggies’ Phenom

At Texas A&M University, Garrett quickly made an impact. As a freshman, he broke the school’s freshman sack record and finished with 11.5 sacks in just six games. His sophomore year was even more impressive, leading the SEC with 12.5 sacks while earning first-team All-American honors.

The Decision to Enter the NFL

On December 31, 2016, Garrett made a decision that would change his life forever: he announced he was forgoing his remaining college eligibility and entering the 2017 NFL Draft. He was projected as a top ten pick, with ESPN’s Mel Kiper Jr. ranking him No. 1 on his big board.

The Browns’ Choice

The Cleveland Browns selected Garrett with the first overall pick in the 2017 NFL Draft. The team signed him to a four-year, $30.41 million contract that included a hefty $20.25 million signing bonus. Garrett’s combine performance was nothing short of impressive, solidifying his position as a top ten pick.

Challenges and Triumphs

Garrett’s rookie season was marked by both triumphs and challenges. He played only 11 games due to injuries but still managed to record 31 combined tackles, seven sacks, and finished first on the team in sacks. In 2018, he took his game to another level, recording 13.5 sacks and being named to his first Pro Bowl.

A Brawl and a Comeback

However, Garrett’s career was not without controversy. During Week 11 of the 2018 season, he got into a brawl with Steelers quarterback Mason Rudolph after a late hit. The incident led to an indefinite suspension from the NFL, but Garrett eventually returned and had a successful 2020 season.

Consistent Excellence

In 2021, Garrett recorded 16 sacks and 51 combined tackles, both career highs. He was named to the Pro Bowl, selected for the 2020 All-Pro Team, and ranked 16th by his fellow players on the NFL Top 100 Players of 2021. His performance in 2024 saw him leading the NFL in tackles-for-loss with 22 and earning his sixth Pro Bowl nomination.

Awards and Achievements

Garrett’s dedication to excellence was recognized when he won the Defensive Player of the Year award at the 13th Annual NFL Honors. His impact on the field is undeniable, but off the field, Garrett has also made a difference through his philanthropic efforts.

Personal Life and Philanthropy

Garrett’s journey extends beyond football. He stopped using Twitter during the 2015 offseason due to negativity but later resumed it. He pursued other interests, such as writing poetry and working on a children’s book about dinosaurs. In 2021, a mural of him and his grandmother was unveiled in Cleveland, celebrating his roots.

Future Plans

After the 2024 season, Garrett requested a trade but eventually signed a four-year, $160 million extension with the Browns. His future is bright, and he continues to inspire through his actions both on and off the field.

As we look back at Myles Garrett’s incredible journey, it’s clear that his story is one of perseverance and dedication. From Texas A&M to the NFL, he has left an indelible mark on the game. His future looks bright, and he continues to inspire through his actions both on and off the field.