Browns Signing Myles Garrett to Monster Extension Would Change Complexion of Franchise

In terms of production, former No. 1 overall pick Myles Garrett has fulfilled every bit of hype surrounding his entry into the NFL, as he has piled up 30.5 sacks in just 35 career starts. That sheer quality, even in the midst of the ugly Mason Rudolph incident, warrants a payday.

The Browns are trying to lock up Garrett "for as long as [they] can," a sign that Cleveland could go as far as making Garrett the highest-paid pass rusher in the league.

A rich Garrett extension arriving with two seasons still on his rookie deal would signify unequivocally that the Browns are all-in -- despite the significant risk it would pose in the years to come.

The Browns will have to make some concessions if they sign Garrett to a long-term deal, as both Baker Mayfield and Nick Chubb will require new contracts of their own in due time. If the Browns are intent on keeping both players around, trading well-paid star receivers Jarvis Landry or Odell Beckham Jr. would have to be considered.

Former GM John Dorsey trading for Beckham, drafting Chubb, and signing Kareem Hunt in free agency are clearly emblematic of his vision of an aerial circus with Mayfield at the sticks. Front office successor Andrew Berry has taken a far more measured approach, as making Garrett the highest-paid player at his position in the league could force the Browns to cut costs on offense.

The terms of Garrett's next contract are going to be extremely interesting given how his reputation across the league has changed drastically following the Mason Rudolph helmet-swinging debacle. Exceeding all that in terms of intrigue, however, could be what Cleveland is forced to do to clear room to make a record Garrett extension a reality.