Myles Garrett has firmly established himself as one of the most dominant defensive forces in the NFL, and for good reason. Coming off a season where he clinched the AP Defensive Player of the Year award, Garrett continues to be the cornerstone of the Cleveland Browns' defensive strategy.
Impressive Stats From Last Season
Garrett's statistics from last season paint a clear picture of his impact on the field. He recorded 42 tackles, 30 quarterback hits, and a staggering 14.0 sacks. His ability to disrupt the offense didn't stop there, as he also forced four fumbles and defended three passes over 16 games. Notably, Garrett registered 86 pressures and 57 hurries, contributing to a remarkable pressure rate of 18.6%. These numbers underscore his ability to break through offensive lines and pressure quarterbacks consistently.
With career totals reaching 88.5 sacks in just 100 games, Garrett is already positioning himself among the greats. He stands third all-time in career sacks since 1982, trailing only legends Reggie White and T.J. Watt. Moreover, Garrett's consistency is evident as he has racked up 14+ sacks in each of the last three seasons and achieved double-digit sacks for six consecutive seasons. His prowess has also tied him with Von Miller for the most games with at least one sack.
Cleveland Browns' Defensive Domination
Garrett's efforts have been instrumental in solidifying Cleveland's defensive front. The Browns' defense emerged as a formidable unit last season, leading the NFL in several categories. They allowed the fewest yards per game (270.2) and showcased a 49% three-and-out rate, a testament to their efficiency in shutting down offensive drives. Additionally, the team led the league in both yards per possession (20.7) and plays per possession (4.5), while also allowing the fewest first-downs per game (14.5).
Continual Improvement and Leadership
Despite his already stellar performance, Garrett remains focused on finding ways to improve. "The focus is finding a way to improve," he stated. His dedication to self-improvement is not just about physical abilities, but also about enhancing his mental game and leadership qualities. "Whether that's mentally, being a leader, being more vocal, leading by example. And then physically, how can I stay at the peak of my powers? I can work on some of the things I'm really good at, but also some of my weaknesses as well."
Garrett's work ethic is evident during the offseason, where he is committed to identifying and addressing his areas of weakness. "During the offseason, I always try to find things I'm weak on," Garrett admitted. This relentless pursuit of excellence encompasses various aspects of his training. "There's ways to do that. The explosive work that we do, change of direction, and play recognition. But I can also work on some hand movements I'm not especially good at, or I can see that someone else is better than me at that position. Looking at them, seeing how I can improve. Just trying to get their process and using it to make it my own."
His holistic approach to growth reflects an understanding that continues to push Garrett beyond the limits of his current capabilities, ensuring he remains a constant threat on the field for opposing offenses.
Legacy in the Making
As Garrett consistently delivers performances that elevate him into the upper echelons of NFL defenders, his drive to improve and lead by example positions him as a role model for both his teammates and the broader league. His mindset and achievements are not only a testament to his personal dedication but also illustrate the standard of excellence he continually sets for himself and his team.
Indeed, the Cleveland Browns' defensive success is deeply intertwined with Garrett's leadership and on-field prowess. As he continues to evolve his game and lead the defensive line, expectations remain high for both him and the Browns as they look to build on their defensive dominance from last season.