Has Myles Garrett’s trade request overshadowed what the Browns need to get this season, most likely in the 2025 NFL Draft?

When Myles Garrett requested to be traded from the Browns earlier this month, it sent shockwaves throughout the NFL.

But there seems to be an unintended consequence of Garrett wanting to be dealt from the Browns.

From an outside perspective, it seems like that request has taken attention away from what the Browns really need to fix this offseason and particularly in the draft: quarterback.

An example is NFL.com saying earlier this month that edge rusher would become a bigger need for the Browns than quarterback if they decided to trade Garrett.

Here’s the problem with that sentiment: a quality starting quarterback is worth more than any other position in the NFL. And it’s easy to make the case that the Browns had the worst quarterback play over the course of the entire 2024 season.

This isn’t to say that the Browns should take a quarterback for the sake of taking a quarterback at No. 2. If you think either Shedeur Sanders or Cam Ward, or even both, can be the guy, you take one without hesitation.

But then this leads to the other question: if a quarterback is good enough to go third to the Giants or sixth to the Raiders, why would the Browns pass on him at No. 2?

That’s a scenario I’ve seen in some mock drafts including one by ESPN’s Field Yates.

This isn’t meant to be a shot at anyone who does a mock draft or to Abdul Carter or Travis Hunter, who are legitimately the top two talents in this class. But in my opinion, if you’re in a position the Browns are in and you pass on a quarterback, no pun intended, it better be for the right reason.

If only one of Sanders or Ward is there at No. 2 and you don’t think highly of that guy, then don’t force the pick.

But if you want to take Carter because of Garrett’s trade request, it’s flawed reasoning.