Myles Garrett Smashes NFL Record: $40M Per Year Makes Him Highest-Paid Non-QB Ever
Myles Garrett is set to become the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history. The Cleveland Browns have reportedly signed him to a four-year contract extension. The deal includes 122.8millioninguaranteedmoney.Itaverages122.8millioninguaranteedmoney.Itaverages40 million per year and totals $204.8 million.
In February, Garrett expressed doubts about staying in Cleveland. He wanted a realistic shot at winning a championship. On social media, the All-Pro pass rusher stated, “My career goal has always been to compete for and win a Super Bowl. With that in mind, I requested to be traded from the Cleveland Browns.”
But the Browns were determined to keep him. They backed up their commitment with this record-breaking deal. The contract sets a new standard for non-quarterbacks. It could impact upcoming negotiations for stars like Ja’Marr Chase and Micah Parsons. The Bengals have already vowed to make Chase the highest-paid non-QB.
Garrett was the No. 1 overall pick in the 2017 draft. He has lived up to the hype, becoming a dominant force at defensive end. He is the Browns’ all-time leader in sacks. Garrett is a four-time first-team All-Pro, six-time Pro Bowler, and the 2023 Defensive Player of the Year. Last season, he recorded 14 sacks and 22 tackles for loss.
Despite Garrett’s success, the Browns have struggled to build a competitive team around him. In his eight seasons, Cleveland has made the playoffs just twice. They’ve never advanced beyond the divisional round. Garrett’s rookie year saw the team go 0-16. In 2024, they finished 3-14.
The Browns’ struggles have been compounded by quarterback Deshaun Watson’s rocky tenure. Watson’s record contract has been overshadowed by poor play, off-field controversies, and injuries.
Meanwhile, the Buffalo Bills made a major move on Sunday. They released veteran edge rusher Von Miller. The decision frees up 8.4millioninsalarycapspace.However,8.4millioninsalarycapspace.However,15 million of Miller’s contract will still count against the cap this year.
The Bills thanked Miller on social media, posting a photo with the words, “Thank You Von.”