NFL Trade Rumors: Dallas Cowboys and Philadelphia Eagles linked to $160M defensive superstar before Chicago Browns trade shocker

The market for elite edge rushers continues to reshape the NFL, and few names generated more attention this offseason than Myles Garrett. Before the Los Angeles Rams completed a blockbuster trade for the former Cleveland Browns star, multiple reports linked both the Dallas Cowboys and Philadelphia Eagles to the All-Pro defender. Garrett, who is playing under a contract worth roughly $160 million, was viewed as one of the most impactful defensive players available. In the end, the Rams moved aggressively, while two NFC East contenders were left watching from the sidelines. Before the trade became official, both Dallas and Philadelphia emerged as teams connected to Garrett in league circles. The Cowboys had a clear need for another premier pass rusher after moving on from Micah Parsons a year earlier. Adding Garrett would have given Dallas an immediate defensive centerpiece capable of changing games on his own. Philadelphia also made sense as a potential destination. The Eagles have consistently invested in their defensive front and rarely pass on opportunities to strengthen one of the league's most important position groups. Pairing Garrett with Philadelphia's existing talent would have created one of the NFL's most feared pass-rushing units. Ultimately, however, Los Angeles presented the most attractive package to Cleveland and completed the deal before rival suitors could gain traction. Reports from Cleveland suggested the Browns were at least willing to listen to offers for their franchise cornerstone. Mary Kay Cabot of Cleveland.com wrote: “Some of the teams rumored to have interest in Garrett are the Rams, Eagles and Cowboys, but nothing has been substantiated.” She also noted another factor that may have influenced Garrett's outlook. “Another reason Garrett might welcome the chance to be traded this offseason is the fact that he might get more money from the new team.” The situation became more notable after new Browns head coach Todd Monken revealed that communication with Garrett had been limited since he took over the position. Garrett remains one of the NFL's highest-paid defenders, earning around $40 million per season. Even with that figure, the market has moved quickly. As Cabot noted, “He’s slipped to No. 6 among the highest-paid defensive ends at $40 million a year, and is averaging $10 million a year less than the Texans’ Will Anderson Jr., who recently inked a $50 million a year deal.” The Rams are expected to revisit Garrett's contract through an extension, restructure, or both. His deal contains enough flexibility to allow Los Angeles to spread cap charges over future seasons while rewarding one of the league's premier pass rushers. For the Rams, the move signals a clear commitment to competing for a championship right now. Garrett gives Los Angeles another elite defender to build around, filling the void left when Aaron Donald retired and immediately elevating the team's pass rush.Cleveland, however, takes a different approach. Jared Verse, a young cornerstone defender with a ton of upside, and the added draft capital gives the Browns more flexibility when it comes to long-term roster planning.It could also establish a new standard for future superstar trades. Teams now have a better idea of what it will cost to land one of soccer’s most imposing defensive talents, whether tried and tested veteran or rising young star.