Browns Lock Up Garrett, But Trade Rumors Swirl

Browns Lock Up Garrett, But Trade Rumors Swirl

Speculation is running wild on the internet about Cleveland Browns star defensive end Miles Garrett. Some believe a trade could be on the horizon, especially after his contract was recently modified. But the Browns are shutting down those rumors, saying they have no intention of trading their star player.

Contract Changes Spark Trade Talk

The confusion started when it was noticed that Miles Garrett’s contract language had been changed. This kind of move often signals that a team might be looking to trade a player. A source told reporter Adam Schefter that a team called him asking about the Garrett situation, pointing out that shifting option bonuses around usually means trade talk is brewing.

However, Schefter immediately contacted the Browns. He was told in no uncertain terms, “We are 100% definitely not trading him.” The team was very strong in their denial, telling Schefter not to even bring up the possibility because it’s not happening.

“We are 100% definitely not trading him,” the Browns told Schefter.

Browns Say It’s About Flexibility

The Browns explained that the contract adjustments were made to give the team more flexibility with their salary cap. They emphasized that this was not done to set up a trade for Garrett. Schefter reiterated that the Browns were extremely firm about keeping Garrett, but acknowledged that this won’t stop people from wondering and guessing.

Some pointed out that the contract modifications weren’t just for this year. The option bonuses have been moved around every year in the contract. This could potentially make it easier to trade him in two or three years. Still, the Browns’ message remains clear: they are not trading Miles Garrett.

Garrett’s Importance to the Browns

Miles Garrett is a cornerstone for the Cleveland Browns. He recently became the highest-paid defensive player who isn’t a quarterback in the league. This move shows how important he is to the team’s future. Even after Garrett publicly commented on the front office, the Browns responded by making him the highest-paid player at his position, showing they consider him their guy.

NFL Season Kicks Off Early Down Under

The NFL season is set to begin earlier than usual this year, with a game scheduled for Wednesday night. This is partly to accommodate a game in Melbourne, Australia. The Thursday night game in the U.S. will be played at 10:35 a.m. in Australia, making it a Friday morning there.

This move to a Wednesday night opener is the first time since 2012. That year, the NFL moved its opener to Wednesday to avoid a conflict with the Democratic National Convention. The league is hoping fans in Australia will tune in and support the game, despite the early morning start time.

Tom Brady’s Return Dreams Dashed

There was also talk about Tom Brady potentially returning to the NFL. Brady himself had mentioned thinking about playing again. However, when he explored this idea, especially with his connection as a minority owner of the Las Vegas Raiders, the NFL reportedly wasn’t keen on the idea.

The NFL’s stance, likely conveyed through the Raiders, effectively shut down any possibility of Brady coming out of retirement for a second time. While many players consider a return, few have Brady’s level of success. The league made it clear they didn’t favor this particular idea.

Referees and CBA Talks Remain a Concern

Another major topic discussed was the ongoing labor dispute between the NFL and the NFL Referees Association (NFLRA). Talks have reportedly broken off, and both sides are blaming the other for the lack of progress. The NFLRA feels the league isn’t negotiating in good faith, while the league believes the union isn’t open to finding a solution.

The NFL is already preparing for the possibility of replacement officials. The competition committee has proposed rule changes that would allow the officiating department to correct clear errors, especially if replacement refs are used. This suggests the league is bracing for a scenario where the regular officials are not on the field.

The NFL released a statement emphasizing their commitment to accountability and performance in officiating. They noted that the NFLRA is demanding raises that are nearly double what players have received. The league stated they are ready to continue negotiations but will prepare for the possibility of a current agreement not being reached, as football will be played in August.

This situation is far from over, and fans are being warned to expect more news on this front as the summer progresses. The need for qualified officials is clear, and the hope is that both sides can come together to avoid a disruptive situation for the upcoming season.

Source: Tom Brady eyeing a RETURN? 👀 Schefty breaks down why the answer was NO 🚫 | The Pat McAfee Show (YouTube)