In a heartfelt and candid open letter, Myles Garrett, the Cleveland Browns’ star defensive end, addressed the Tampa Bay Buccaneers community, sharing his personal journey, challenges, and aspirations. Garrett’s letter offers a profound insight into his experiences and the mindset that has shaped his career.
Reflecting on his early days with the Browns, Garrett recalls the transformative words of Coach Kitchens, who, upon taking over the team, confessed, “I’m not supposed to be here.” This sentiment resonated deeply with Garrett, especially during the team’s challenging 0–16 season in his rookie year. Instead of succumbing to despair, Garrett and his teammates viewed each loss as a “missed opportunity,” fueling their determination to persevere.
A pivotal moment in Garrett’s narrative is his observation of quarterback Baker Mayfield during a particularly tough game against the Houston Texans. Despite a rough first half, Mayfield’s composed demeanor and resilience in the second half left a lasting impression on Garrett, solidifying his belief in the team’s potential.
Garrett’s letter also delves into the unwavering support of Browns fans, acknowledging their loyalty through seasons of adversity. He emphasizes the collective mentality of the team and its supporters, embracing the underdog role and transforming it into a source of strength and opportunity.
In his concluding remarks, Garrett expresses profound gratitude to the city of Cleveland and Browns fans worldwide. He acknowledges the hardships they’ve endured but remains optimistic about the future, stating, “We’re the Cleveland Browns — and we’re not supposed to be here. But guess what? We’re here.”
Through this letter, Garrett not only shares his personal journey but also underscores the themes of resilience, unity, and the relentless pursuit of excellence that define his career and the spirit of the Cleveland Browns.