The Washington Commanders were immediately linked to Cleveland Browns star defensive end Myles Garrett this week when he announced a request to be traded.
Every analyst names the Commanders as the top match for Garrett because they need a dominant edge rusher, have an abundance of cap space,, and have star quarterback Jayden Daniels.
Even the betting odds believe Washington could be Garrett’s next destination.
But what does Garrett think?
The NFL world convened in New Orleans this week, and players from around the league made the media rounds. Garrett is one of those players, and people are interested in what the former NFL Defensive Player of the Year will do next.
Mina Kimes of ESPN asked Garrett if playing with Daniels and the Commanders would appeal to him.
“Absolutely,” Garrett responded. “I mean, he looked great. I mean, he looked great when we played them. But, he really showed his behind when he was in the playoffs. And, you know, he’s really done it and been very composed, you know, throughout the entire season, and he can only continue to flourish and, you know, keep his head down and continue to work.”
Would playing alongside a rising star like Jayden Daniels appeal to Myles Garrett?
“Absolutely.”
Had a chance to chat with Myles about his trade request, what he’s looking for, and what he wants for his football legacy. Full interview: https://t.co/BGwGs7Zbga pic.twitter.com/Mn1yO2mmyj
— Mina Kimes (@minakimes) February 5, 2025
Kimes wasn’t the only show to ask Garrett about the Commanders.
In an interview with Sports Illustrated, Garrett was asked point blank if he would like to go to the Commanders. Garrett, perhaps a bit surprised by the question, initially laughed before breaking down what Washington needs.
“I think they need a pass rusher,” Garrett said of the Commanders. “I think that’s something that they dearly missed. They’re in the playoffs and some of the big games, and I feel like I can fill that role.”
Myles Garrett says he can “fill that role” of pass rusher for the Commanders
pic.twitter.com/bJoiMus6x8
— Sports Illustrated (@SInow) February 5, 2025
Garrett is right. Washington needs a pass rusher. Dante Fowler Jr. led the Commanders with 10.5 sacks in a part-time role last season. Washington would like to bring Fowler back in that same type of role, but it desperately needs an impact, game-changing defensive player and Garrett remains one of the best, if not the best, defensive player in the NFL.
Will the Browns trade Garrett? If so, you can expect the Commanders to be very interested. And, from the sound of it, that interest goes both ways.