Myles Garrett made headlines today after requesting a trade from the Cleveland Browns. Frustrated with the organization's direction following a three-win season, the star defensive end is eager to compete for championships—something he no longer sees as realistic in Cleveland.
It's unclear how interested the San Francisco 49ers might be in acquiring Garrett. While he would significantly boost an underperforming pass rush, the financial implications and the draft capital required to land him could present significant challenges.
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However, one NFL legend believes the move is worth it. Iconic 49ers receiver Jerry Rice didn't hesitate when asked about the possibility of Garrett joining San Francisco.
"Man, that's a dog. That's a dog," Rice said Monday morning on Bay Area radio station 95.7 The Game. "Hey, that's a no-brainer. If you can get that dog, you go get him because it's only going to add to that defense. And you win championships with defense.
"I don't care how potent your offense is and how many points you're putting up, you've got to be able to stop the opponent, and he would be a great part to doing that."
Garrett would form a dominant edge-rushing duo opposite Nick Bosa, creating nightmares for opposing quarterbacks. The Browns star has recorded at least 14 sacks in each of the past four seasons and has only dipped below double digits once—in his 2017 rookie campaign.
According to Pro Football Focus, Garrett earned a 92.8 pass-rush grade in 2024, the highest among all defensive linemen with more than 280 snaps. His 83 total pressures tied Cincinnati Bengals pass rusher Trey Hendrickson for the most in the league, while his 22 tackles for loss led the NFL. His 14 sacks ranked second only to Hendrickson's 17.5.
If the 49ers decide to make a move, they'd add one of the league's most dominant defensive forces to a unit that underachieved in 2024. The only question is whether they're willing to pay the price.
You can listen to Rice's entire interview below.
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