The relationship betweenMyles Garrett and the Cleveland Browns reached a complex situation as the defensive anchor skipped voluntary workouts. This absenceplaces a $1 million workout bonus for the 2026 season at risk of forfeiture.
Internal tension escalated following a disappointing 2025 campaign that resulted in the firing of Kevin Stefanski. The organization replaced him withTodd Monken, who now oversees a roster led by the league’s most expensive non-quarterback.
Cleveland Browns defensive end Myles Garrett, Buffalo Bills
Nov 16, 2025; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Cleveland Browns defensive end Myles Garrett (95) warms up before a game against the Baltimore Ravens at Huntington Bank Field. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-Imagn Images
Garrett recently signed a market-setting extension averaging $40 million annually, with $123.5 million in guaranteed money. Despite this financial commitment, the front officemodified his contract language to delay a massive option bonus deadline.
This adjustment moved the payment date from March to just one week before the 2026 regular season starts. Such a maneuver effectively grants Cleveland a window to trade Garrett without being responsible for the eight-figure bonus.
The star defender remains the most dominant force in professional football after recording 23 sacks last year. That performance officially broke the NFL single-season record previously held by Michael Strahan during his Hall of Fame career.
“Garrett’s contract includes a $1 million workout bonus for 2026,” Mike Florioreported. “And while the payment is fully guaranteed, it still must be earned through participation in offseason sessions.”
Monken appears unbothered by the absence of his primary pass rusher during these early spring months. The new coach emphasized the program’s voluntary nature while focusing on building a new offensive identity.
“First of all, this is voluntary for our players to be here,” Monken said. “From a schematic standpoint, from a work standpoint, it is not so much of a concern right now.”
Even though Garrett wasn’t present at the beginning of the offseason training sessions, Monken believes that when the time comes, his top player will be prepared to perform well.
Management evaluates future assets involving Myles Garrett
The analytics-driven front office led by Andrew Berry faces immense pressure to return to the AFC playoffs. While Berry calls Garrett a cornerstone, the recent contract tweaks suggest the team is weighing his astronomical trade value.
“I’m going to take that down, and I prefer that I take it down here,” Garrettsaid regarding his pursuit of more records. “That is definitely on my mind to go out there and get.”
Speculation persists that a contender could offer a package of draft picks similar to the haul for Micah Parsons. Cleveland might view those assets as a faster path to rebuilding a roster that struggled recently.
Garrett turns 30 this year and remains vocal about his desire to secure a Super Bowl ring. If the Browns cannot provide a winning environment, both parties may eventually find a divorce mutually beneficial.
The coming months will determine if the modified contract was a simple accounting trick or a precursor to a blockbuster. For now, the NFL sack king remains a Brown while the league watches Cleveland’s next move.