American defensive end who became the first overall pick in the 2017 NFL Draft after a dominant college career at Texas A&M University.
Born in Arlington, Texas in 1995, Myles Lorenzo Garrett emerged from Martin High School as one of the nation's most coveted defensive prospects. The son of Lawrence Garrett, a former basketball player, and Audrey Garrett, he displayed exceptional athletic ability across multiple sports before focusing on football. His family's emphasis on education and intellectual development would later distinguish him among professional athletes. Garrett's collegiate career at Texas A&M University established him as the most dominant pass rusher in Southeastern Conference history. Across three seasons (2014-2016), he accumulated 31.5 sacks, the highest total by any SEC player in the modern era. His junior campaign in 2016 proved particularly exceptional, earning him consensus All-American honors and SEC Defensive Player of the Year recognition. The Cleveland Browns selected him first overall in the 2017 NFL Draft, making him the first defensive player chosen with the top pick in eleven years. His professional achievements have validated the Browns' investment. Garrett earned NFL Defensive Player of the Year honors in 2023, becoming the first Browns player to receive the award since 1989. He has been selected to multiple Pro Bowls and earned First-Team All-Pro recognition multiple times. His combination of size, speed, and technique has made him one of the league's premier edge rushers, consistently ranking among sack leaders. Beyond statistical accomplishments, Garrett has distinguished himself through intellectual pursuits uncommon among professional athletes. He creates mechanical models, paints, and engages with literature, often referencing books and poetry in press conferences. This Renaissance approach to personal development has enhanced his public profile beyond football. Garrett's legacy encompasses both on-field dominance and cultural influence. His Texas A&M sack record remains unmatched in SEC history, while his professional career continues to cement his status among elite defensive players. His emphasis on intellectual growth has helped redefine athlete stereotypes, demonstrating that physical excellence and scholarly interests can coexist at the highest levels of professional sports.
Being the first overall pick in the 2017 NFL Draft
How They Played
Explosive pass rusher with exceptional speed and power off the edge
Lasting Impact
One of the most dominant pass rushers in college football history
Career Honours
- Consensus All-American 2x
- Big 12 Defensive Player of Year
- First overall pick 2017
- SEC Defensive Player of the Year (2015)
- Ted Hendricks Award (2016)
- Bill Willis Trophy (2016)
| Club | Period | Apps |
|---|---|---|
| Texas A&M Aggies | 2014–2016 | 37 |