Image Credit: via Imagn
Image Credit: via Imagn
Jun 24, 2026, 5:04 PM CUT
Browns legend joe Thomas breaks silence on major myles garrett trade
The Cleveland Browns made headlines when they traded defensive end Myles Garrett to the Los Angeles Rams on 1 June.
This move wasn’t easy for the Browns as they had to let go of their No.1 pick in the 2017 Draft, who was with the franchise for nine years. However, NFL legend Joe Thomas had a different call on this matter and offered his take on the deal.
He said, “It puts us in a much better position for the next two, three, four years as we’re in this building phase.”
Cleveland Browns v Minnesota Vikings International Series 05/10/2025. Browns legend Joe Thomas during the International Series match between Cleveland Browns and Minnesota Vikings at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, London, United Kingdom on 5 October 2025. London Tottenham Hotspur Stadium London United Kingdom Editorial use only , Copyright: xDennisxGoodwinx PSI-22961-0187
Cleveland Browns v Minnesota Vikings International Series 05/10/2025. Browns legend Joe Thomas during the International Series match between Cleveland Browns and Minnesota Vikings at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, London, United Kingdom on 5 October 2025. London Tottenham Hotspur Stadium London United Kingdom Editorial use only , Copyright: xDennisxGoodwinx PSI-22961-0187
Thomas acknowledged that adjusting to life after Garrett would be tough for fans.
As you step away from the emotion of losing Myles, you realize this puts the team in a much better situation moving forward, and it was the right decision even though it hurt," Thomas said on The Insiders Show.
In return, they received DE Jared Verse, a 2027 first-round pick, a 2028 second-round pick, and a third-round pick in 2029.
Garrett was the Browns’ centerpiece with his seven Pro Bowls and two-time Defensive Player of the Year honors in 2023 and 2025. He also made NFL history with his record 23 sacks in one season.
As Per Nate Lunak of Athlon Sports, the Browns are in a rebuilding phase and seeking consistency on their roster. With the draft picks they received during the trade, they are in a position to choose top-tier talent, like they did with Thomas in 2007.
Lunak concluded in an agreement with Thomas that by bringing in the 2024 Defensive Rookie of the Year in Jared Verse, the Browns have gained leverage for their championship endeavors.
Joe thomas’ future plans for the browns alongside DE jared verse
Thomas further shared that although the Garrett news gained traction, the ultimate goal for the franchise continues to be to become a contender at whatever cost it takes.
“When you look at the Myles trade, to be able to get a great young player like Jared Verse, who is a tremendous pass-rusher, who is a great asset to the team. He’s on a friendly contract, saving money there,” added Thomas during The Insiders Show.
Thomas added that it’s beneficial for the Browns to invest in a “valuable asset” like the 25-year-old Verse, who can bring similar success and build a future.
In the 2025 season, Verse recorded 35 solo tackles and 7.5 sacks for the Rams. Not only that, but his performance in the playoffs was commandable, with 3.5 sacks and 4 solo tackles.
Thomas concluded by saying that for the Browns fans, the ceiling wasn't at cheering for players who were clocking numbers to mark a record, but focusing on winning championships.
Read more at the Cleveland Browns Community!
Written by
Naomi Grace
Edited by
Kalp Thaker