The Los Angeles Rams weren't alone in their pursuit of two-time Defensive Player of the Year Myles Garrett.
The Buffalo Bills called the Cleveland Browns the same day that reports began to surface about Garrett being traded to L.A., sources told The Ringer's Tom Pelissero. The Bills had periodically checked in on his availability over a two-year span but were consistently told that the star pass-rusher wasn't available.
Los Angeles ultimately acquired Garrett in exchange for Jared Verse, a 2027 first-round pick, a 2028 second-round selection, and a 2029 third-rounder. The Rams' ability to offer a young edge rusher in Verse reportedly helped seal the deal.
Garrett, who set the single-season record for sacks (23) last year, is one of many significant offseason acquisitions made by the Rams. The team also added standout cornerback Trent McDuffie and the newly unretired Aaron Donald.
The 30-year-old Garrett wasn't the only pass-rusher the Rams had been keeping tabs on, adds Pelissero. L.A. reportedly also inquired about Maxx Crosby, who remained with the Las Vegas Raiders after a trade to the Baltimore Ravens fell apart in March. The Ravens nixed the trade after Crosby failed his physical due to medical concerns over his surgically repaired left knee.
Before attempting to land Garrett, the Bills signed Bradley Chubb and C.J. Gardner-Johnson in March to bolster their defensive unit. They also traded for receiver DJ Moore to give quarterback Josh Allen a top receiving threat.
