Why did Browns trade Myles Garrett to Rams?

Myles Garrett trade reshaped both franchises

The Cleveland Browns agreed to trade reigning Defensive Player of the Year Myles Garrett to the Los Angeles Rams in a blockbuster deal that immediately changed the balance of power in the NFL’s NFC West.

Based on the reported trade packages, Cleveland’s return centered on Jared Verse plus an additional first-round draft pick (reported as a 2027 first-rounder in some deal breakdowns). That structure matters because it signals a shift from relying on a single elite edge rusher to rebuilding through a younger core and controllable draft capital.

For the Rams, acquiring Garrett addressed an obvious championship-season priority: adding a proven, high-impact pass rusher to an already contender-level roster. The move was framed by multiple reports and analysis pieces as a way for Los Angeles to push its Super Bowl profile higher, with updated odds and “repeat” expectations tied directly to Garrett’s arrival.

What makes the move notable

The trade wasn’t just about talent—it also came with timing context. Several reports tied the discussions and likelihood of movement to the June 1 calendar shift, with contract and salary-cap mechanics often becoming clearer after that date.

In addition, the broader fallout affected how divisions were viewed. Coverage highlighted how Garrett’s departure would make certain NFC matchups harder for opponents to game-plan against, while also increasing the sense that the Rams had become a more dangerous contender.

Key impacts reported

• Rams gained a DPOY-caliber edge rusher to elevate their Super Bowl window.
• Browns received Verse and a first-round pick, implying a roster and timeline adjustment.
• NFL division perceptions shifted immediately after the deal became public.