In an impressive feat, Myles Garrett of the Cleveland Browns set a new NFL record with his 23rd sack of the season against the Cincinnati Bengals on December 24, 2023. This accomplishment, however, contrasts sharply with the Browns’ ongoing struggles, as the team faces one of its worst seasons in franchise history.
Garrett’s record-breaking performance, which surpassed Michael Strahan’s longstanding record of 22.5 sacks, highlights the edge rusher’s exceptional talent in a challenging environment. Despite his individual success, the Browns have struggled on the field, currently sitting with just three wins. This season marks the ninth time in franchise history that the Browns are on track to finish with three or fewer wins, a record that reflects the team’s ongoing difficulties.
The statistical backdrop of Garrett’s achievement is notable. According to data from For The Numbers, only one player with at least 18 sacks has had fewer dropbacks faced than Garrett this season. The data indicates that losing teams typically defend fewer passes, limiting opportunities for sacks. Garrett’s performance, therefore, becomes even more remarkable when viewed through this lens of adversity.
Breaking Down the Numbers
As of Week 17, Garrett had achieved a sack on one out of every 20.8 dropbacks, a significant statistic when compared to his predecessors. For instance, Michael Strahan recorded his 22.5 sacks on 567 dropbacks, averaging 25.2 dropbacks per sack. In contrast, Garrett’s efficiency demonstrates his ability to make impactful plays even when the team is not winning.
Garrett’s current season stats place him second in fewest dropbacks per sack among players who have reached 18 sacks in a season. This efficiency is further emphasized by the fact that he is playing for a team that ranks among the lowest in time spent leading games. The Browns are currently 28th in this metric, averaging only 16 minutes and 19 seconds leading in games.
Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski acknowledged the significance of Garrett’s achievement given the context of the team’s performance. “What he’s doing with the degree of difficulty, with all the context around it, is so impressive,” Stefanski noted. This perspective underscores the rarity of Garrett’s accomplishment in such adverse conditions.
The Legacy of Myles Garrett
Garrett’s journey illustrates a blend of remarkable talent and unfortunate circumstances. Despite being recognized as the best player on the field week after week, he continues to play for a franchise that has seen little success since drafting him in 2017. The Browns have only one playoff win during his tenure, a statistic that adds to the narrative of a talented player constrained by his team’s limitations.
This season, Garrett signed a four-year, $160 million extension, solidifying his future with the Browns. While this commitment provides financial security, it also raises concerns about the potential for continued struggles within a franchise that has struggled to build a competitive roster around him.
Garrett expressed his approach to the situation with a focus on making the most of the opportunities presented to him. “You can only make the most of the opportunities that you get,” he stated. “I’m just going out there and playing the game I can play. I can’t complain.” This mindset reflects his dedication to the game, even as the Browns face another disappointing season.
As the season progresses, Garrett’s record will be remembered as a testament to his extraordinary talent, even as the team around him falters. His ability to achieve such heights amid significant challenges only adds to his growing legacy within the league.
