Buccaneers’ dream free-agent target is off the market

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers had potential interest in trading for Myles Garrett, but his new deal with Cleveland Browns ends any speculation.

Mar 1, 2022; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers general manager Jason Licht talks to the media during the 2022 NFL Combine. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images | Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers will have to look elsewhere for a game-changing pass rusher.

The Buccaneers saw their potential trade target, Myles Garrett, sign a record-setting contract extension with the Cleveland Browns on Sunday, officially taking him off the market.

Tampa Bay had been rumored as a possible suitor for the four-time All-Pro, but the Browns made their stance clear by locking up Garrett with a deal averaging $40 million per year, including $123.5 million in guaranteed money, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter.

From trade to truce and beyond: the Browns and Myles Garrett reached agreement today on a record contract extension that averages $40 million per year and includes $123.5 million in guaranteed money and now makes him the highest-paid non-QB in NFL history, sources tell ESPN.… pic.twitter.com/scNWJH2vFX

— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 9, 2025

READ MORE: Buccaneers could trade $52 million star during free agency

According to Schefter, the contract, negotiated by Garrett’s agent Nicole Lynn of Klutch Sports and Browns general manager Andrew Berry, also includes a no-trade clause, ensuring he remains in Cleveland through the 2030 season.

The extension puts an end to speculation that Garrett could be on the move after he requested a trade in early February. Reports indicated that Browns owner Jimmy Haslam declined to meet with him regarding the request, as the team remained firm in its decision to keep him.

Myles Garrett celebrates after sacking Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Tom Brady. | Jeff Lange / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

The Buccaneers which have been searching for defensive help this year, now must explore other options for their pass rush.

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