Myles Garrett: A Defensive Powerhouse in the NFL
Myles Garrett has firmly established himself as one of the most dominant defensive forces in the NFL. His performance consistently puts him in elite company and has made him a cornerstone for the Cleveland Browns' defense.
Last season, Garrett's efforts were rewarded as he earned the prestigious AP Defensive Player of the Year award. His stats were nothing short of stellar, recording 42 tackles, 30 quarterback hits, 14.0 sacks, four forced fumbles, and three passes defended in 16 games. These numbers underline his value and impact on the field.
Digging deeper into his performance metrics, Garrett posted 86 pressures and 57 hurries, with an impressive pressure rate of 18.6%. He has amassed 88.5 career sacks in just 100 games, making him third all-time in career sacks since 1982, trailing only the legendary Reggie White and the formidable T.J. Watt. Additionally, Garrett has tallied 14 or more sacks in each of the last three seasons, along with achieving double-digit sacks for six consecutive seasons. His consistency and ability to disrupt opponents' offenses are unparalleled.
Garrett's prowess on the field is complemented by his mindset and dedication off it. "The focus is finding a way to improve," Garrett says. "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."
Such an attitude towards continuous improvement is what sets Garrett apart. "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 explains. This commitment to refining every aspect of his game ensures that opponents can never take him lightly.
Garrett’s meticulous approach also extends to studying and learning from his peers. "Looking at them, seeing how I can improve. Just trying to get their process and using it to make it my own," he says. This drive to excel constantly and seek improvement is a testament to his dedication to the sport and his team.
The Cleveland Browns have greatly benefited from Garrett's presence. Last season, the Browns led the NFL in allowing the fewest yards per game (270.2). The defense's dominance was evident with a 49% three-and-out rate, leading the league in yards per possession (20.7) and plays per possession (4.5). Furthermore, they allowed the fewest first-downs per game (14.5). These impressive defensive statistics highlight Garrett's influence and the synchronized efforts of the Browns' defensive unit.
Garrett's relentless pursuit of excellence, both individually and as a team player, sets the standard for defensive play in the NFL. His combination of physical gifts and an unwavering commitment to improvement make him a feared competitor and a respected leader.
As the new season approaches, the NFL community waits in anticipation to see how Garrett will continue to raise the bar. If his previous seasons are any indication, opposing offenses should prepare for another challenging year facing the Browns' defensive powerhouse.