Cleveland Browns defensive end Myles Garrett continues to battle with a series of injuries that have significantly affected his performance on the field this season. Despite undergoing an MRI on Monday that came back clean, Garrett's issues persist, particularly with both his feet causing ongoing discomfort.
"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 commented. "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."
Impact on Garrett’s Performance
These physical issues have not only hampered Garrett's game but also forced a reduction in his snap count. Last season, Garrett was on the field for 76.46% of the Browns' defensive plays. However, this season, he's participated in only 67.18% of the defensive snaps. This decline was evident in recent games against the Dallas Cowboys and Jacksonville Jaguars, where his contribution was noticeably limited.
During the Week 3 loss to the Giants, Garrett could be seen massaging his feet on the sidelines and needing attention in the medical tent. This visual underscored the severity of his condition and why the team had to be cautious about his usage.
Coach and Medical Team's Stance
Browns Head Coach Kevin Stefanski acknowledged the complexity of Garrett's situation, noting that the player is dealing with both Achilles and thigh injuries. Consequently, he was kept out of Wednesday's practice to allow some time for recovery.
Despite these setbacks, Garrett remains optimistic and determined to continue contributing where possible. "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," said Garrett.
Looking Forward
Garrett’s current status is day to day, and while the MRI results provide a bit of relief, his ongoing struggles are a significant concern for the Browns. Since the start of the 2021 season, Garrett has missed only one game due to injury, underscoring his resilience and determination to stay on the field.
The Browns' medical staff will need to take a cautious approach to ensure Garrett's health moving forward. The team must balance his immediate contributions with the longer-term need for him to be fully healthy. Garrett’s absence or limited capacity presents challenges for a defense that relies heavily on his presence and performance.
As the season progresses, the Browns will need to navigate these challenges carefully. Garrett’s determination and positive outlook will be crucial not only for his own recovery but also for the overall fortunes of Cleveland's defense this season. Ensuring he gets the necessary time to heal will be pivotal for both Garrett and the Browns as they aim to make a significant impact in the league.