Cleveland Browns defensive end Myles Garrett is navigating a rough patch as he battles injuries to both of his feet. Despite the setbacks, Garrett remains determined to stay on the field and contribute to his team.
Following Sunday's game against the New York Giants, Garrett underwent an MRI on Monday to assess the re-aggravation of his foot issues. The MRI results provided some relief, coming back clean. However, the struggle for Garrett is far from over.
An Uphill Battle
In the Browns' Week 3 loss, Garrett's resilience was on full display as he made a trip to the medical tent and worked closely with trainers before returning to the game. Head coach Kevin Stefanski has since labeled Garrett as "day to day." Despite the clean MRI, Garrett has hinted at the possibility of needing a procedure later on.
"It's more than just the foot. It's multiple things going on," Garrett explained. "If I think the foot's feeling good or feeling better, it's one thing or another. 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."
His determination to play through the pain highlights not only his dedication but also the grueling reality of professional football. "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," Garrett said, demonstrating his focus on the present and his commitment to his team.
Reduced Snap Counts
This season, Garrett has seen a drop in his snap count, which can undoubtedly be attributed to his ongoing issues. Last season, Garrett was on the field for 76.46% of the Browns' defensive snaps. This year, that number has decreased to 67.18%, indicating the impact of his physical challenges.
During Sunday's game, Garrett was visibly in pain, doubling over and needing assistance to walk off the field. Post-game, he was seen limping—a stark reminder of the toll the sport takes on its players.
Looking Ahead to Week 4
As the Browns prepare for their Week 4 matchup against the Raiders, Garrett's immediate future on the field remains uncertain. Since the start of the 2021 season, Garrett has only missed one game due to injury, underscoring his usual durability and resilience. However, his current state suggests that both he and the Browns might need to navigate this situation with extra caution moving forward.
Garrett's focus on the immediate rather than the distant future speaks volumes about his mindset. He aims to stay in the game, contributing as much as he can, despite the adversities he's facing. The notion of needing a procedure down the line looms, yet Garrett's resolve to push through is a testament to his dedication.
With the Raiders on the horizon, the Browns and their fans wait with bated breath to see how Garrett's situation evolves. His ability to perform at a high level is crucial for the Browns' defense, and his leadership on the field is irreplaceable. Whether Garrett will be able to play through his current ailments or will need to heed medical advice and rest remains to be seen.
For now, Garrett's insistence on playing and contributing despite the pain stands as a powerful symbol of his commitment to football and his team. The upcoming weeks will be telling for both Garrett and the Browns as they seek to balance his health with his invaluable presence on the field.