Myles Garrett's Injuries Add Uncertainty for the Cleveland Browns
Cleveland Browns defensive end Myles Garrett is navigating a challenging period as he contends with injuries to both of his feet. Despite the setbacks, Garrett's commitment to his team remains unshaken. The star defender underwent an MRI on Monday after re-aggravating his foot issues during Sunday’s game against the New York Giants. Thankfully for Garrett and the Browns, the MRI results came back clean.
The Week 3 loss to the Giants saw Garrett seeking medical attention on the sidelines, where he conferred with trainers and spent time in the medical tent. Even so, Garrett’s determination to contribute to the game was evident as he made his way back onto the field. Despite his efforts, the game proved taxing, as Garrett was visibly in pain, doubled over, and required assistance to walk off the field. Post-game, he was seen limping, underlining the severity of his conditions.
Head Coach Kevin Stefanski has labeled Garrett "day to day," reflecting the uncertainty surrounding the defensive end’s immediate future. Garrett himself has openly discussed the ongoing nature of his ailments, hinting at the possibility of requiring a procedure in the future. "It's more than just the foot. It's multiple things going on. So, I mean, if I think the foot's feeling good or feeling better, it's one thing or another," Garrett explained. "So it's kind of just feeding into each other right now, and nothing's sitting right because nothing has time to heal because I'm leaning on something else and I'm compensating here to make something hurt there. It's just been, like I said, a cycle."
Despite these challenges, Garrett remains focused on the present. "I'm not concerned about something I don't know about. So, get the results and move from there. At this point, I'm going to continue to move as I have and look forward to playing the next game until someone tells me otherwise," he stated resolutely. Garrett’s plan to keep playing is evident, even if it means managing a reduced snap count.
There is a marked difference in Garrett’s on-field presence this season compared to last year. His snap count has dropped from being on the field for 76.46% of the Browns' defensive snaps to 67.18% this year. This reduction is indicative of the toll the injuries are taking on his capacity to maintain the same level of participation.
The Browns face another test in their upcoming Week 4 matchup against the Raiders. With Garrett’s status uncertain, the team will have to weigh the decision of playing him against the risk of aggravating his injuries further. Since the start of the 2021 season, Garrett has missed just one game due to injury, a testament to his resilience and dedication. As things stand, both Garrett and the team are focused on navigating these immediate challenges.
In the broader context of the NFL, Garrett’s situation is a stark reminder of the physical demands placed on players and the delicate balance between competitive drive and long-term health. The coming days will likely bring more clarity to Garrett's playing status, but one thing is clear: his commitment to the Browns and the game remains unwavering.