LAS VEGAS — Cleveland has known for a long time. Frankly, the NFL has, too.
But now, the entire sporting world can never again doubt just how good Myles Garrett is. At long last, he has the hardware to back it up.
The Browns' stellar pass-rusher was named AP NFL Defensive Player of the Year at Thursday night's NFL Honors in Las Vegas. While a number of outlets have given out DPOY trophies for decades, the Associated Press' version is considered the most prestigious, and Garrett is the first Cleveland player to ever take home the honor.
"We've got a hell of a brotherhood that helped support me and get here," Garrett said upon accepting the award, thanking his family, coaches, and teammates, among others.
Already a four-time All-Pro and five-time Pro Bowler, Garrett was the unquestioned leader of Cleveland's top-ranked defense in 2023, finishing with 30 quarterback hits, 14 sacks, and 17 tackles for loss. Even when a shoulder injury hampered his stats down the stretch, his mere presence on the field was enough to open up opportunities for teammates like Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah (20 TFLs) and Za'Darius Smith (5 1/2 sacks). As a team, the Browns finished 11-6 and made the playoffs for just the third time since returning to the league in 1999.
"To the city of Cleveland, this one's for you," Garrett said. "We're going to be bringing home something bigger next time."
Besides the AP, Garrett was also named Defensive Player of the Year by the Pro Football Writers of America, The Sporting News, and Pro Football Focus. The only Cleveland player to previously take home a leaguewide DPOY award was Jerry Sherk from the Newspaper Enterprise Association in 1976, with Michael Dean Perry also earning AFC honors from United Press International in 1989.
Besides Garrett, defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz was also named Assistant Coach of the Year, while Kevin Stefanski earned Coach of the Year honors for the second time in his tenure with the Browns. Quarterback Joe Flacco also became the first man in franchise history to win Comeback Player of the Year.