Cleveland Browns’ star defensive end Myles Garrett made history on December 24, 2023, by breaking the long-standing 24-year-old NFL sack record previously held by Michael Strahan. Garrett’s record-breaking 23rd sack came during a game against the Cincinnati Bengals, further solidifying his status as one of the premier pass rushers in the league. Despite this remarkable achievement, the backdrop of a disappointing season for the Browns casts a shadow over his accomplishment.
As the Browns grapple with a challenging season, Garrett’s success feels bittersweet. With a current record of 3-12, Cleveland is on track to finish with three or fewer wins for the ninth time in franchise history. This grim reality underscores the struggle of the team, where the best player on the field often finds himself overshadowed by the overall performance of a struggling franchise.
Garrett’s achievement is notable not only for the number of sacks but also for the context in which he achieved it. His feat becomes even more impressive considering the lack of opportunities created by a losing team. According to data from For The Numbers, Garrett has defended fewer dropbacks than most players with high sack totals. This season, he has recorded his 23 sacks on just 458 dropbacks, averaging 20.8 dropbacks per sack. In comparison, Strahan’s record was achieved on 567 dropbacks, averaging 25.2 dropbacks per sack.
Context of a Record-Breaking Season
Garrett’s performance stands out against a backdrop of historical data. Only one player with at least 18 sacks in a season has defended fewer dropbacks than Garrett this year, highlighting the unique challenges he faces. Coach Kevin Stefanski emphasized the significance of Garrett’s achievement, noting, “What he’s doing with the degree of difficulty, with all the context around it, is so impressive.”
The Browns’ struggles impact Garrett’s ability to showcase his skills effectively. With the team often trailing in games, opponents can adjust their strategies to release the ball more quickly, minimizing Garrett’s opportunities to sack the quarterback. “We’re playing into their hands,” noted Browns defensive end Alex Wright. The data reveals that only a few teams have spent less time leading in games than the Browns, who rank 28th with an average of just 16 minutes and 19 seconds leading this season.
While Garrett’s individual accomplishments shine, the overall performance of the Browns continues to be a source of frustration. Since drafting Garrett in 2017, the team has secured just one playoff victory. The current season’s trajectory suggests that the Browns are unlikely to change this narrative anytime soon.
Looking Ahead: The Future for Garrett and the Browns
Garrett’s contract extension this offseason, worth $160 million over four years, suggests he will remain a cornerstone of the franchise in the coming years. Yet, it also places him in a challenging position where he may find himself defending against quick passes and ball-control offenses.
Reflecting on his season, Garrett remains focused on maximizing his opportunities. “You can only make the most of the opportunities that you get,” he stated recently. His determination to excel under difficult circumstances speaks volumes about his character and commitment to the game.
As the Browns look toward the future, the organization faces critical decisions to enhance their roster and provide Garrett with the support necessary to capitalize on his exceptional talent. Until then, his remarkable individual achievements will continue to shine, even as they highlight the broader struggles of the franchise.
