Myles Garrett named PFWA Defensive Player of the Year after historic season

Cleveland Browns star Myles Garrett has added another major award to his growing list of achievements. After a record-breaking 2025 campaign, Garrett was named the Pro Football Writers of America (PFWA) Defensive Player of the Year, a fitting reward for one of the most dominant seasons by a pass rusher in NFL history.

Despite the Browns enduring a difficult year as a team, Garrett’s individual brilliance stood out every single week. His performances not only kept Cleveland competitive in many games, but also rewrote parts of the league’s record book.

A record-setting season for the Browns’ star

The highlight of Garrett’s season came in Week 18 when he recorded his 23rd sack of the year. That moment officially made him the single-season sack leader in NFL history, breaking the long-standing mark of 22.5 sacks shared by Michael Strahan and T.J. Watt.



Over 17 games, Garrett finished with 23 sacks, 60 total tackles, and a career-high 33 tackles for loss. He also forced three fumbles and consistently pressured opposing quarterbacks, drawing double teams and extra protection almost every week.

For Cleveland, which finished near the bottom of the AFC North, Garrett was often the lone bright spot. Offensive coordinators across the league built entire game plans around slowing him down, yet he continued to produce at an elite level.

The PFWA award is one of the most respected individual honours in the NFL, voted on by reporters who cover the league closely throughout the season. This is the second time Garrett has won the PFWA Defensive Player of the Year, having previously claimed the award in 2023.


In recent years, the PFWA winner has often gone on to win the NFL’s official AP Defensive Player of the Year award as well. That puts Garrett in a strong position to add yet another trophy at the upcoming NFL Honors ceremony.

Around the league, players, coaches and analysts were quick to praise Garrett’s impact. Many described his 2025 campaign as one of the most complete defensive seasons they have ever seen.

Browns celebrate their franchise cornerstone

The Browns wasted no time celebrating the news. The team shared messages on social media congratulating Garrett, while teammates and fans echoed the praise.



At 30 years old, Garrett is now firmly established among the greatest defensive players of his era. He also recently signed a long-term extension that keeps him in Cleveland through the 2030 season.

For the Browns, Garrett’s award is a reminder that they have a true superstar to build around. As the franchise searches for stability and a new direction after coaching changes, Garrett remains the face of the defense.



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