CLEVELAND – Cleveland Browns defensive end Myles Garrett, coming off a historic season and a Defensive Player of the Year award, is facing renewed scrutiny, this time for a legal matter off the field. The NFL star received his ninth speeding citation since 2017, according to court records, raising questions about a pattern of traffic violations.
The most recent incident occurred on February 21st, when Garrett was clocked driving 94 miles per hour in a 70 mph zone on an interstate in Northeast Ohio, as first reported by ESPN. He was pulled over at approximately 1:35 a.m. In Wooster, Ohio. Garrett is scheduled to appear in court next Tuesday, though he can avoid a court appearance by paying the fine.
A History of Speeding Tickets
This isn’t Garrett’s first encounter with law enforcement regarding speeding. Since being drafted by the Browns as the first overall pick in 2017, the defensive end has accumulated a series of speeding tickets. This latest citation marks the ninth of his professional career. The frequency of these incidents has drawn attention, particularly given Garrett’s high profile and the responsibilities that approach with being a leading figure in the NFL.
Just last August, Garrett received another speeding ticket in a Cleveland suburb, where he was recorded traveling at 100 mph in a 60 mph zone. Prior to that, in 2022, Garrett was involved in a single-car accident after losing control of his vehicle, resulting in a sprained shoulder and a biceps strain. The Ohio State Highway Patrol investigation following the crash determined he was driving 65 mph in a 45 mph zone – deemed “an unsafe speed for the type of roadway,” according to the crash report.
On-Field Success Contrasts with Off-Field Issues
The repeated speeding incidents stand in stark contrast to Garrett’s dominance on the football field. He is widely regarded as one of the most disruptive defensive players in the NFL, a cornerstone of the Browns’ defense. His ability to pressure quarterbacks and disrupt opposing offenses has made him a perennial Pro Bowler and All-Pro selection.
Garrett enjoyed a career year in 2025, setting a novel NFL single-season sack record with 23. This performance solidified his position among the league’s elite defenders and earned him the NFL Defensive Player of the Year award – his second, having previously won the award in 2023. He has earned seven Pro Bowl selections and five First-team All-Pro honors throughout his career.
The Browns invested heavily in Garrett, and he has consistently delivered on the field. His impact extends beyond statistics; he’s a leader on the defense and a key component of the team’s overall success. Yet, these recurring off-field issues raise concerns about judgment and potential consequences.
Potential Ramifications and League Response
While these traffic violations haven’t directly impacted Garrett’s performance on the field, they attract unwanted media attention and could potentially lead to disciplinary action from the Browns or the NFL. The league has a personal conduct policy that addresses player behavior, and repeated offenses, even if not criminal in nature, can result in fines or suspensions.
As of now, neither the Browns nor Garrett have issued an official statement regarding the latest speeding ticket. It remains to be seen whether Garrett will pay the fine or contest the citation in court. The outcome of this case, and any potential league response, will be closely watched by fans and media alike.
It’s important to note that the NFL has develop into increasingly focused on player safety and responsible behavior, both on and off the field. While speeding tickets may seem minor compared to more serious offenses, a pattern of reckless driving can raise concerns about a player’s overall judgment and potential risk to others.
Myles Garrett is scheduled to be back on the field with the Cleveland Browns for the start of the 2026 NFL season. The team will begin preparations for the upcoming year with organized team activities in the spring. The Browns’ schedule for the 2026 season will be released in May, and fans will be eager to observe how the team builds on its recent success.
The situation serves as a reminder that even high-profile athletes are subject to the same laws and regulations as everyone else. It also highlights the importance of responsible driving and the potential consequences of reckless behavior.
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