As the NFL landscape continues to evolve, one constant remains: Myles Garrett is a dominant force on the defensive end. Having firmly established himself as one of the league's premier defensive players, Garrett's accolades and statistics speak volumes about his impact on the field.
Last season, Garrett earned the coveted AP Defensive Player of the Year award, an honor that underscores his influence on every snap for the Cleveland Browns. Garrett's contributions have made him a cornerstone of the Browns' defense, and his staggering numbers from last season provide a glimpse into his dominance. He recorded 42 tackles, 30 quarterback hits, and 14.0 sacks. Additionally, he forced four fumbles and defended three passes across 16 games.
Remarkable Consistency
Garrett's ability to pressure opposing quarterbacks is second to none. He had 86 pressures and 57 hurries last season, translating to a pressure rate of 18.6%. His relentless pursuit has cemented his place among the NFL's elite pass rushers. Over his career, Garrett has amassed 88.5 sacks in 100 games, placing him third all-time in career sacks since the statistic was first officially recorded in 1982, trailing only legends Reggie White and T.J. Watt.
His consistency is noteworthy. Garrett has recorded 14 or more sacks in each of the last three seasons and has notched double-digit sacks for six consecutive seasons. Furthermore, he is tied with Von Miller for the most games with at least one sack, a testament to his sustained excellence and longevity.
Impact on Team Performance
The Browns' defensive prowess extends beyond Garrett’s individual achievements. Cleveland led the NFL in the fewest yards allowed per game, giving up just 270.2 yards on average last season. The defense also excelled in critical situations, boasting a three-and-out rate of 49%, the best in the league. Additionally, they led the NFL in yards per possession (20.7) and plays per possession (4.5), while also allowing the fewest first-downs per game (14.5).
Garrett's leadership and influence are also evident in his off-field perspective. Speaking about his approach to the game, Garrett said, "The focus is on finding a way to improve. 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."
During the offseason, Garrett’s work ethic shines through. "During the offseason, I always try to find things I'm weak on. 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," he elaborated.
Relentless Improvement
Garrett’s commitment to self-improvement and learning from others encapsulates his drive. "Looking at them, seeing how I can improve. Just trying to get their process and using it to make it my own," he added. This mindset not only elevates his personal game but also sets a standard for his teammates and the entire defense.
As Garrett continues to refine his techniques and expand his leadership role, the impact on the Browns’ defense remains profound. The combination of his individual brilliance and the team’s collective strength promises to keep Cleveland as a formidable defensive unit in the seasons to come.
Myles Garrett’s journey is a testament to relentless pursuit and a quest for improvement. His achievements and outlook reflect a player at the pinnacle of his career, intent on pushing boundaries further. For the Cleveland Browns and their fans, Garrett's relentless determination embodies hope and excellence on the defensive front.