Green Bay Packers Fans Advocate for Trade of Myles Garrett from Cleveland Browns
Fans of the Green Bay Packers are rallying for a trade to acquire Myles Garrett from the Cleveland Browns. While optimism exists, concerns about the Browns' financial situation and Garrett's health complicate the scenario.
Following the news of Myles Garrett's trade request from the struggling Cleveland Browns, fans of the Green Bay Packers are expressing strong interest in acquiring the four-time All-Pro edge rusher. Packers general manager Brian Gutekunst has received pressure from the fanbase to make a significant move in the trade market.
Currently, the Packers are viewed as strong contenders for Garrett's services, with FanDuel placing their odds at +750 to secure the former number one overall pick. Optimism surrounds the possibility that the traditionally cautious Packers might finally break their trend of not trading their own first-round picks since 1987.
Historically, Green Bay has not made significant trades involving first-round selections, with their last trade being for safety Mossy Cade in 1987. A notable past trade occurred in 1992 when they sent a first-round pick to the Atlanta Falcons in exchange for future Hall of Famer Brett Favre.
Recently, Gutekunst emphasized the Packers' ambition to compete for championships, raising speculation that this could be an opportune time for a bold trade.
However, Browns insider Mary Kay Cabot has challenged the notion of trading Garrett, asserting that the team's 'rebuild mode' is not in alignment with their goals. "The Browns aren't in rebuild mode and wish to win as quickly as possible. Retaining the best defensive player in the NFL is essential for that," she stated.
Cabot highlighted that the Browns possess the talent to recover from their disappointing 3-14 record, mentioning several Pro Bowl players on their roster. However, many of these top players will face free agency soon, raising concerns about the team’s future.
Furthermore, with the Browns currently $27 million over the salary cap and limited space available in the coming years, trading Garrett could complicate their financial situation. Despite any potential signings or recoveries from players like quarterback Deshaun Watson, the long-term viability of the current roster is uncertain.
Cabot also pointed out that the actual trade demand for Garrett could be substantially higher than expected. "If general manager Andrew Berry previously stated he wouldn’t trade Garrett for two first-round picks, acquiring him would likely require even more," she explained. Additionally, any new team would have to consider an extension in the vicinity of $35 million per year.
As Garrett approaches 30 and contends with injury issues, investing heavily in him poses significant risk. Many Super Bowl contenders already have strong rosters and the necessary cap space to extend him, further complicating potential trade discussions.
