The Rise of Myles Garrett: From Arlington to NFL Stardom

Myles Garrett

The Rise of Myles Garrett: From Arlington to NFL Stardom

When we talk about elite defensive ends in the NFL, the name Myles Garrett repeatedly rises to the top. From his early days in Arlington, Texas, to his standout performances with the Cleveland Browns, Garrett has made his mark as one of the most dominant forces in professional football.

Myles Garrett’s journey began at Martin High School in Arlington, where he shone not only on the football field but also in basketball and track and field. His athleticism was clear early on, and his transition to collegiate football at Texas A&M Aggies framed his potential perfectly. At Texas A&M, Myles Garrett shattered freshman sack records and showcased a blend of speed, strength and instinct rarely seen in defenders.

Draft Day & Early Professional Years

The arrival of Myles Garrett in the NFL was highly anticipated. Selected first overall by the Cleveland Browns in the 2017 NFL Draft, Garrett entered the league with expectation and hype. His rookie season may have been hampered by injury, but even then he showed glimpses of the disruptive edge he would bring to opponents for years to come.

In those early years, Myles Garrett’s presence on the field became more than just sacks: it became influence. Whether it was forcing quarterbacks from the pocket, disrupting plays in the backfield, or just commanding double teams, Garrett quickly became the focal point of Cleveland’s defensive identity.

Peak Performance & Signature Seasons

One of the defining features of Myles Garrett’s career has been his ability to deliver big numbers and big plays. Over time, he has accumulated over 100 career sacks, an outstanding feat for a defensive end. 2023 was especially noteworthy: Garrett’s dominance earned him the NFL Defensive Player of the Year award, cementing his status among the elite.

But Myles Garrett isn’t just about statistics. What sets him apart is his consistency, his ability to rise in the biggest moments, and his relentless pursuit of improvement. Season after season, opponents would scheme specifically to try and contain him — and yet Garrett found ways to win those individual battles.

Contract, Leadership & Off-Field Impact

Off the field, Myles Garrett’s value extends far beyond game day. In March 2025, he agreed to a contract extension with the Browns that made him the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history at that time. That deal speaks volumes about how highly the organisation values him.

Meanwhile, Garrett’s leadership within the team has been evident. Whether mentoring young players, engaging with media thoughtfully, or using his platform in the community, Myles Garrett brings an identity to the Browns that resonates far beyond his 95-jersey. For instance, Garrett publicly supported teammate Shedeur Sanders, acknowledging his hard work and positive attitude.

Challenges, Expectations & What’s Next

Despite his success, Myles Garrett’s journey hasn’t been without complexity. The Browns as a franchise have faced ups and downs, and Garrett has openly expressed his desire to win a Super Bowl. In February 2025, he requested a trade in order to explore that possibility.

Nevertheless, Garrett remains focused on the immediate task: helping his team compete. According to reports, team leadership and outlets remain confident in his commitment and readiness to perform. The question now is less about whether Myles Garrett can dominate — we know he can — and more about whether the pieces around him will allow him to achieve the ultimate goal.

Why Myles Garrett Matters — To Fans and the Game

For fans, Myles Garrett delivers more than just highlight-reel sacks. He offers a narrative of athletic excellence, determination and adaptability. His strength, speed and technical skill make him a nightmare for offensive linemen. Moreover, his presence elevates the entire defence: when Garrett is playing at his best, the blueprint for opposing offences changes.

In the broader football world, Myles Garrett has become a benchmark for what an elite edge rusher should look like. Young pass-rushers watch his stance, his timing, his finish. He combines physical attributes with game intelligence, and that combination is what puts him in the conversation with all-time greats.

Final Thoughts

When you talk about Myles Garrett, you’re talking about a player who arrived with sky-high expectations and has lived up to them — and at times exceeded them. From his record-setting college days, to being the first overall pick, to becoming a three-time All-Pro (and counting), Garrett’s trajectory has been consistently upward.

As the NFL season progresses, all eyes will continue to turn to Myles Garrett — whether he’s chasing opposing quarterbacks, dominating match-ups, or leading his team toward bigger goals. For fans of football and students of the game alike, Garrett’s story is still being written — and it’s one worth following.

In the world of NFL pass rushers, Myles Garrett is unmistakably one of the very best.

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