Browns Trade Key Player To Giants In Surprise Offseason Move

The Cleveland Browns have traded star defensive end Myles Garrett to the New York Giants in a blockbuster deal announced Thursday morning. The move, which includes multiple draft picks, has sent shockwaves through the NFL community just weeks before the 2026 draft.

ESPN's Adam Schefter first reported the trade, revealing the Browns will receive the Giants' 2026 first-round pick (No. 12 overall) and a 2027 second-round selection. The Giants also agreed to take on Garrett's remaining contract, worth $125 million over four years.

Garrett, a five-time Pro Bowler and 2024 Defensive Player of the Year, had spent his entire nine-year career with Cleveland. The 30-year-old pass rusher recorded 14.5 sacks last season despite playing through a shoulder injury.

The trade comes as the Browns enter a rebuilding phase under new general manager Andrew Berry, while the Giants aim to bolster their defense for a playoff push. New York head coach Brian Daboll called Garrett "the final piece" for their championship aspirations.

Fan reactions have been mixed on social media, with Browns supporters expressing disappointment and Giants fans celebrating the acquisition. The trade is currently the top trending NFL topic nationwide as analysts debate which team got the better deal.

NFL Network's Ian Rapoport notes the Browns now hold three first-round picks in the 2026 draft, positioning them for a major rebuild. Meanwhile, the Giants' defense instantly becomes one of the league's most formidable with Garrett joining Dexter Lawrence and Kayvon Thibodeaux.

The trade marks one of the most significant player movements of the offseason and could reshape the balance of power in both the AFC North and NFC East divisions. Both teams are expected to address the media later Thursday to discuss the surprising transaction.