Myles Garrett’s silence this offseason has caught a lot of attention. The five-time All-Pro defender’s absence coincides with massive leadership and financial shifts in the Cleveland Browns for the 2026 season.

“It’s not a good look,” Joe Haden said on The Deebo and Joe Show on May 25. “I would love for you to show up. This is not ideal, I would love our defensive player of the year to be in the building. This is camaraderie…You want your vets in there. You want them dudes in there, leading by example.”

Haden had a successful seven-year stint with the Browns that featured two Pro Bowls and a second-team All-Pro. The 37-year-old is expecting the veteran to lead his team, concerned about the implications of Garrett’s absence so far. 

The Browns announced Todd Monken as their new head coach over four months ago. Garrett, the reigning and two-time Defensive Player of the Year, is yet to meet him. In an April media session, Monken revealed that they have messaged each other. However, as of May, he still hasn’t met Garrett. 

The 30-year-old has also been absent from the voluntary OTA training, which has happened before, but this year is different for a one glaring reason. The modified language of Garrett’s contract which, reportedly, became official on March 24.

According to ESPN, Garrett’s contract “called” for his option bonuses in 2026, 2027, and 2028 to be exercised by the 15th day of each league year. Hence, March 25 was the 15th day of this season.

However, because of the amended terms, that date is pushed back to seven days before the regular season each year. Moreover, Garrett moved the $8 million of his base salary in 2029 and 2030 into roster bonuses early in each league year. 

This financial arrangement created flexibility in the Browns’ cap space, but it also means something else. 

“One of the results of that tweak is that he is now easier to trade,” Heavy wrote on May 25.

Questions persist regarding whether Garrett will suit up for the Browns this season. If he does play with them for the year, Garrett has to be diligent.

Will Myles Garrett Show Up In The Upcoming Minicamp?

The Cleveland Browns are gearing up for the upcoming mandatory minicamp. With that, veterans like cornerback Denzel Ward and safety Grant Delpit are expected to show up alongside Myles Garrett. 

The Browns’ star defensive end opted out of the voluntary minicamp like he did in the past. However, further absence could cost him $1 million. 

Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk reported that Garrett’s contract includes a $1 million workout bonus for 2026. To earn that, he has to attend at least 84.375 percent of offseason sessions, all minicamps, all OTA days, and report on time. 

Garrett had asked to be traded in the 2025 offseason before signing a $140 million, four-year contract extension. His longevity with the Browns has been concerning, especially after the recent changes. 

Do you think he will return and take charge as Haden wants him to? 

Read more at the Cleveland Browns Community! 

Written by

Akanksha Biradar