It sure sounds like Myles Garrett wants to play for the Commanders

All eyes were on Cleveland Browns defensive end Myles Garrett during his appearance on Radio Row ahead of this weekend's Super Bowl. As expected, the premier pass-rusher was asked about speculation linking him with a move to the Washington Commanders.

Garrett's disillusion with the way things are unfolding in Cleveland led to the perennial All-Pro handing in an official trade request. The Commanders need pass-rushing assistance. It would be foolish of general manager Adam Peters to overlook this significant opportunity to acquire one of the game's elite players regardless of position.

Acquiring Garrett wouldn't be cheap. The Browns aren't reportedly willing to entertain offers right now. They still hold the cards, although that could change if the former No. 1 overall selection out of Texas A&M forces the issue.

The Commanders wouldn't be alone in coveting Garrett should Cleveland eventually begin taking calls. Of all the rumored trade targets and speculation, this is the one they should go all-in on after coming within touching distance of the Super Bowl.

Myles Garrett is open to joining the Commanders via trade this offseason

And it sure sounds like Garrett would welcome the chance to join this exciting project.

Garrett feels like he could be the pass-rushing weapon Washington needs to get over the hump when speaking to Sports Illustrated. He also remains adamant there is no overall defender better in the league currently.

"I think they need a pass rusher. That's something that they dearly missed in the playoffs and some of their big games. And I feel like I could fill that role. But I think that's a role that multiple teams need. I feel like not only a pass rusher but I'm the best-known defensive player in the game. And I think that is invaluable in itself."

Myles Garrett

How about this one from an interview with Mina Kimes of ESPN? Garrett said he would love to play for the Commanders, especially considering they have a genuine franchise-caliber quarterback under center in Jayden Daniels. He is someone the edge threat believes is only going to improve further after his phenomenal rookie exploits.

"Absolutely. He looked great. I mean he looked great when we played them. But he really showed his behind when he was in the playoffs. And, you know, he's really done it and been very composed, you know, throughout the entire season and he can only continue to flourish if he keeps his head down and continues to work."

Myles Garrett

Call me crazy, but Garrett was almost encouraging the Commanders to throw their hat into the ring.

He'll have other teams on his shortlist, of course. Much will also depend about whether the Commanders are willing to give a king's ransom to secure his services. But if Peters can somehow strike a deal with Browns general manager Andrew Berry, it won't take much longer for the defensive powerhouse to approve the transaction.

There's just no telling the impact Garrett could have on Washington's defense. He's an exceptional disruptor — a relentless force capable of taking over games when firing on all cylinders. This wouldn't be a gamble. This is as close to a sure thing as you're going to find anywhere, at any time.

The Commanders have a shot. Their Super Bowl window is open and Garrett made no secret of his admiration for the new regime's incredible start. The pieces are slowly falling into place, but this is far from a foregone conclusion just yet.

Fans are eagerly anticipating developments as the offseason unfolds. Acquiring Garrett would instantly see the Commanders go from a dark horse to among the Super Bowl favorites.

Whether it becomes a reality or not hasn't been determined.

More Commanders news and analysis