Browns' Myles Garrett says he’s ‘Proud’ of Drake Maye’s rise as a leader

Cleveland Browns defensive end Myles Garrett had a record-setting day against New England but still left the field frustrated after a 32-13 loss.

Garrett sacked Patriots quarterback Drake Maye five times, setting a new franchise record, yet Maye stole the spotlight by throwing for 282 yards, three touchdowns, and just one interception.

Despite the defeat, Garrett had nothing but respect for the 23-year-old signal-caller, praising his maturity and growth since entering the league.

“I think he is a great human being. I think he is a good quarterback who is soon to be a great quarterback,” Garrett said. “I like how he’s grown. It’s nice to be a part of his journey. Hate to be on this end of it, but it’s nice to see how he’s leading his team. He’s helped them rebuild into what they are now. In a way, I’m proud of him, and I’m happy to see his success.”

Browns DE Myles Garrett on Drake Maye: "I think he is a great human being. I think he is good quarterback who is soon to be a great quarterback. I like how he’s grown. It’s nice to be a part of his journey. Hate to be on this end of it, but it’s nice to see how he’s leading his…

Maye, in his second NFL season, has thrown for 1,241 yards and 10 touchdowns with only one interception in his last five games. He will next face Atlanta’s defense, which has allowed just 149.1 passing yards per game this season.

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Garrett’s Record Night Overshadowed by Team’s Struggles

Garrett’s five sacks broke his previous single-game best of 4.5, set in 2021 against the Chicago Bears. Three of those sacks came before halftime and helped force New England into field goals, keeping the Browns within striking distance at 9-7.

But as Cleveland’s offense stalled, Garrett’s effort could not prevent another defeat that dropped the team to 2-6.

“I would throw the whole performance away for a win,” Garrett said afterward.

His frustration was visible late in the game when he sat alone on the bench after tossing his helmet aside. Even with his dominance, he said the team’s focus must remain collective.

“I see [a] young quarterback that’s fighting,” Garrett said of his own teammate, Dillon Gabriel, who threw two interceptions and was called for intentional grounding in the end zone.

“So we’ve all got to help each other… we dug ourselves in this hole.”

The Browns now head into their bye week looking for answers before facing the New York Jets on Nov. 9.

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