The San Francisco 49ers are no strangers to bold moves in pursuit of a Super Bowl title. With Cleveland Browns superstar pass rusher Myles Garrett officially requesting a trade, the Niners have a golden opportunity to create one of the most dominant defensive fronts in NFL history.
Why Garrett is a Game-Changer
Myles Garrett isn’t just another elite pass rusher—he’s a generational talent. Since being drafted No. 1 overall in 2017, Garrett has terrorized quarterbacks, racking up multiple seasons with double-digit sacks despite facing constant double teams. His production speaks for itself:
16 sacks (2021)
16 sacks (2022)
13 sacks (2023)
14 sacks (2024)
Garrett has been a one-man wrecking crew in Cleveland, thriving even without elite help around him. Pairing him with Nick Bosa would give the 49ers a pass-rushing tandem that could single-handedly alter games.
Can the 49ers Afford Garrett?
Financially, the move is feasible. The Browns are dealing with cap struggles due to their massive investment in Deshaun Watson. Garrett’s current contract, which voids in 2027, makes him an attractive trade target. While the Browns would absorb a significant dead cap hit, a post-June 1 trade would alleviate some of their financial burden.
For the 49ers, acquiring Garrett wouldn’t break the bank immediately. His 2025 cap hit for a new team is just $5 million, with his salary structured around option bonuses that Cleveland is responsible for unless they trade him before March.
What Would It Cost San Francisco?
Cleveland won’t give Garrett away, but the 49ers have assets to get a deal done. The expected price?
A first-round pick (No. 11 overall)
A Day 2 pick (potentially No. 75 or No. 139)
A player like Yetur Gross-Matos or a mid-tier defender
If the Browns truly have no leverage, a first and a second-rounder might be enough. However, San Francisco may need to sweeten the deal if other contenders get involved.
Why the 49ers Must Act Now
Beyond strengthening their own Super Bowl chances, trading for Garrett prevents him from landing with an NFC rival like the Rams, Lions, or Cowboys. The 49ers’ defense is already elite, but adding Garrett alongside Bosa would make them nearly unstoppable.
With $43.3 million in effective cap space and five picks in the top 100, the Niners have both the means and motivation to make this move. If Garrett’s trade request is legitimate, San Francisco should waste no time in making a franchise-altering acquisition.
