Myles Garrett has firmly established himself as one of the most dominant defensive forces in the NFL today. The Cleveland Browns' defensive juggernaut not only delivers on incredible physical prowess but also displays a relentless pursuit of excellence, both mentally and physically.
Defensive Prowess
Last season, Garrett won the AP Defensive Player of the Year award, underscoring his impact on the field. In 16 games, Garrett recorded 42 tackles, 30 quarterback hits, 14.0 sacks, four forced fumbles, and three passes defended. These statistics are a testament to his relentless pressure on opposing offenses.
Furthermore, he amassed 86 pressures, 57 hurries, and a pressure rate of 18.6% during the season. His ability to disrupt quarterbacks stands unparalleled, as evidenced by his career total of 88.5 sacks in just 100 games. These numbers place him third all-time in career sacks since 1982, trailing only legends like Reggie White and T.J. Watt.
Consistent Impact
Garrett's consistency is another pillar of his career. He has had 14 or more sacks in each of the last three seasons and has achieved double-digit sacks for six consecutive seasons. In addition, he is tied with Von Miller for the most games with at least one sack. Such consistency underlines Garrett's status as a cornerstone for the Cleveland Browns' defense.
Team Dominance
Garrett's impact is not just individual brilliance but also significantly contributes to the team's defensive stats. Last season, Cleveland's defense led the NFL in allowing the fewest yards per game (270.2). Their three-and-out rate of 49% was the highest, putting immense pressure on opposing offenses. Cleveland also led in metrics like yards per possession (20.7), plays per possession (4.5), and allowed the fewest first downs per game (14.5).
Pursuit of Excellence
Garrett's dominance is built on a foundation of continuous improvement and relentless work ethic. "The focus is finding a way to improve," Garrett emphasized. "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."
This relentless pursuit of becoming better defines Garrett’s approach to the game. "During the offseason, I always try to find things I'm weak on," he said. "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." This reflective nature and willingness to adapt and evolve separate Garrett from merely talented players and categorize him as truly elite.
Garrett's meticulous approach involves learning from others, recognizing his weaknesses, and transforming them into strengths. "Looking at them, seeing how I can improve. Just trying to get their process and using it to make it my own," he explained.
Conclusion
As Myles Garrett continues to embody both the physical and mental attributes of an elite athlete, his role as the lynchpin of the Cleveland Browns' defense seems destined to grow. With his extraordinary skills, insatiable appetite for improvement, and determined leadership, Garrett not only elevates his own play but also boosts those around him, ensuring that the Browns' defensive might remains formidable for years to come.