Aaron Donald understands what sustained dominance looks like on the defensive line, and he did not hesitate to praise Myles Garrett after the Cleveland Browns star delivered a remarkable season. The former Los Angeles Rams standout highlighted Garrett’s production as evidence of a player operating at an elite level regardless of circumstances.
Garrett finished with 23 sacks, a staggering total that placed him among the league’s most disruptive defenders. What made the accomplishment stand out even more was the context in which it occurred, as Cleveland often found itself trailing on the scoreboard. Despite opposing offenses knowing the Browns needed stops, Garrett consistently broke through protections and forced quarterbacks into hurried decisions.
Cleveland Browns, Myles Garrett
Sep 7, 2025; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Cleveland Browns defensive end Myles Garrett (95) is introduced before a game against the Cincinnati Bengals at Huntington Bank Field. Mandatory Credit: Scott Galvin-Imagn Images
Donald described Garrett as a dominant player and pointed to the difficulty of compiling that many sacks while playing from behind in most games. In situations where opponents could lean on the run or quick passes to protect a lead, Garrett still managed to generate pressure and close drives. That level of impact, Donald suggested, speaks to more than just raw talent.
Throughout the season, Garrett’s presence shaped offensive game plans. Teams routinely dedicated extra blockers and adjusted protections to slow him down, yet he remained productive. His ability to convert speed to power and finish plays in the backfield reinforced his reputation as one of the premier edge rushers in football.
Aaron Donald Reacts to Cleveland Browns Star Myles Garrett’s Special Season
NFL, Aaron Donald
Former Pittsburgh Panther and retired NFL defensive tackle Aaron Donald waves to the crowd while walking out onto the field during his jersey number retirement ceremony during halftime of the Pittsburgh Panthers vs Notre Dame Fighting Irish game at Acrisure Stadium in Pittsburgh, PA on November 15, 2025.
Donald shared his thoughts about Garrett’s performance last season. This can be seen in a video shared by The Arena: Gridiron on X.
Aaron Donald talks about Myles Garrett and his monster DPOY season pic.twitter.com/SYdQHa6dhe
— The Arena: Gridiron (@ArenaGridiron) February 18, 2026
“Dominant player,” Donald said. “They don’t give the award to guys that make it to the playoffs but just the way he played, to be able to have 23 sacks in a season when you playing behind, most of every single game, that’s crazy to me.”
While team success often influences award narratives, individual dominance on the defensive front cannot be ignored. Garrett’s 23-sack campaign placed him in rare company and demonstrated the type of performance that can anchor a franchise defense.
Donald’s endorsement adds weight to the conversation surrounding Garrett’s season. When one of the game’s most respected defensive linemen labels a peer dominant, it underscores the level at which Garrett operated and the standard he continues to set in Cleveland.
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