Rams HC Sean McVay Reveals ‘Hardest Part' Of Myles Garrett Trade
The Los Angeles Rams entered the offseason determined to maximize their championship window, and their blockbuster trade for reigning Defensive Player of the Year Myles Garrett proved just how aggressive they were willing to be.
The Rams' fortunes quickly changed after they acquired Matthew Stafford in 2021, winning just their second Super Bowl in franchise history. They have come close to replicating that success, most recently falling to the Seattle Seahawks in the NFC Championship Game.
Looking to make the most of Stafford's MVP-caliber form, there was no better time to be aggressive. When the opportunity arose to acquire a generational talent like Garrett, head coach Sean McVay and the Rams' front office were determined to make it happen and build a truly intimidating roster. However, it came at a steep price.
Los Angeles sent outside linebacker Jared Verse, a first-round draft pick in 2027, a second-round pick in 2028, and a third-round pick in 2029 to the Cleveland Browns in exchange for Garrett. For McVay, however, the hardest part was parting with Verse, who made the Pro Bowl in each of his first two seasons with the Rams.
"That was the hardest part of this decision, parting with somebody that we love and care about. Wishing (Verse) the best in Cleveland," McVay said in Tuesday's press conference, via USA Today. "He's done an amazing job for us these last couple years, brought in energy, a production level and toughness."
Los Angeles initially attempted to acquire Garrett with a package centered solely around draft picks, but Cleveland had little interest until Verse was included in the deal. At just 25 years old and only a year removed from winning Defensive Rookie of the Year honors, Verse gives the Browns a ready-made replacement and helps ensure they do not suffer the same defensive drop-off the Dallas Cowboys experienced after trading Micah Parsons last year.
For the Rams, though, the price may not feel all that high. Garrett is arguably the best defensive player in the NFL and is coming off a career year in which he broke the league's single-season sack record with 23.0. He also added 60 total tackles and 43 solo stops.
A seven-time Pro Bowler, Garrett is the only player in NFL history to record at least 12 sacks in six consecutive seasons. While double teams have become the norm, they have rarely slowed him down.
There is also the possibility that former three-time Defensive Player of the Year Aaron Donald could come out of retirement to join Garrett on the Rams' defensive front, which would make Los Angeles a terrifying matchup for opposing offenses.
Of course, the Rams' offense, featuring Stafford, Puka Nacua, and Davante Adams, is already one of the best in the league. The moment the trade was announced, Los Angeles quickly became overwhelming favorites to win the Super Bowl.
With Garrett now leading a roster already loaded with star power, anything short of a championship run will likely be viewed as a disappointment.
Related: Myles Garrett vs Jared Verse Stats: Analyzing the Blockbuster Browns-Rams Trade
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This story was originally published June 3, 2026 at 8:43 AM.