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USA Today via Reuters

USA Today via Reuters

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Debate

Can Myles Garrett's leadership finally steer the Browns out of their perpetual cycle of disappointment?

The Browns’ offense has been struggling to find its rhythm. And to make things worse, the Commanders’ high-flying offense is next on the schedule. Things aren’t looking any easier. Myles Garrett, never one to sugarcoat, was blunt about the state of their defense: “We’re playing like a 1-3 defense right now.” That’s not exactly what you want to hear from your Defensive Player of the Year. But Garrett didn’t stop there.

Standing at the podium, he called out the entire team, especially the offense. “I’m tired of getting kicked in the teeth. So, I’m gonna make sure we’re on the same page.” It’s clear he’s not accepting mediocrity and do you blame him? If Dawg Pound wants any hope of turning this season around, then Garrett and the defense needs to get back to their dominant 2023 form.

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Last year, Cleveland’s defense under Myles Garrett was the backbone of an 11-win, playoff-bound season. But so far in 2024, they haven’t been getting hits all around. With a matchup against rookie sensation Jayden Daniels and the Commanders, the pressure is mounting.

Daniels is already making history, completing an absurd 82.1% of his passes. This rookie isn’t just about slinging it, though—he’s mobile, ranking second in rushing yards among QBs. The Commanders have scored on nearly every drive this season, and that’s why Garrett wants his team to rally in unison.

Speaking of long days, Cleveland’s struggles against the run could make it even worse. Washington ranks third in rushing yards per game, and the Browns have been giving up chunks of yards after contact—yikes. “First guy’s got to wrap up and slow the runner down,” Garrett said, clearly fed up with the missed tackles.

The Browns can’t afford to let the Commanders run wild, especially after letting the Raiders, a team missing Davante Adams, rush for 152 yards. Time to tighten up, boys. But there’s a reason Myles Garrett is urging his team.

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Can Myles Garrett's leadership finally steer the Browns out of their perpetual cycle of disappointment?

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Myles Garrett’s injuries are not stopping him!

Myles Garrett has been a force on the field, but 2024 hasn’t been kind to him physically. Battling multiple injuries, particularly to his feet, Garrett is playing through pain. Yet, as Week 3 rolled in, there he was, back on the line, ready to face the Giants. Even with a foot injury, he wasn’t going to let his team down. But you’ve got to ask yourself—how much longer can he push like this?

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During the game, Garrett limped off after aggravating his injury, leaving the Dawg Pound in shock. But, in true Garrett fashion, he returned to the field, refusing to give up. He even pulled off a massive sack before the half. Impressive, right? But it begs the question: is this heroism coming at too high a cost? Hamstring injuries, foot pain—these things can derail a season if not managed right.

The real worry now? Garrett’s future. His injuries aren’t just a one-time thing. He’s been dealing with foot issues dating back to childhood surgeries, and it’s something he admitted might require more surgery down the road. “Hopefully, the pain… goes away,” Garrett shared, but there’s no guarantee. So, as he fights through each game, you’ve got to wonder: is it worth risking the rest of his career?

Despite all this, Garrett remains elite. His stats tell the story: 1st in QB pressure rate (22.8%), 1st in quick QB pressures (16), and tied for 1st in pass-rush grade (94.2). He’s totaled nine tackles, four sacks, and two forced fumbles in just four games this season.

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The Browns need him more than ever, especially as they face Washington this week. But will Myles Garrett’s body hold up for the season, or is Cleveland looking at a future without their cornerstone?