CLEVELAND — The debate is over. The record books have been rewritten. And the number is 23.
As the NFL world descends on San Francisco for the 2026 Pro Bowl Games, one storyline towers above the rest: Myles Garrett’s historic 2025 campaign. The Cleveland Browns superstar didn’t just have a “good year”—he terrorized offensive lines to the tune of 23.0 sacks, officially breaking the single-season record previously held by T.J. Watt and Michael Strahan (22.5).
The NFL’s official Twitter account dropped a highlight reel this morning reminding us exactly how scary “Flash Garrett” was this season, featuring a clip from the Week 10 clash against the Jets where he was, as usual, a one-man wrecking crew.
The Path to 23: A Season of Havoc
Garrett’s march to history wasn’t a slow burn; it was an explosion. He capped off the regular season in Week 18 against the Cincinnati Bengals, dragging down Joe Burrow to stand alone at the mountaintop.
But the seeds were sown earlier. Take the Week 10 game against the Jets shown in the viral clip. Even in a tough 27-20 loss, Garrett was relentless. The screenshot captures a 2nd Quarter blitz with the Jets leading 17-14. Garrett forced hurried throws and constant double-teams, a theme that defined the Browns’ defense all year. He didn’t just chase quarterbacks; he hunted them.
The numbers are staggering:
- Final Sack Count: 23.0 (NFL Record)
- Tackles for Loss: 33 (League Leader)
- Consistency: Recorded at least 0.5 sacks in 9 straight games.
“I had a dream I didn’t break it. I woke up and said, ‘No way.’ We’re not letting history slip by. To do it with this group of guys, who bleed and sweat with me… it’s everything.” — Myles Garrett, following the Week 18 win vs. Bengals
San Francisco Calling: Pro Bowl Games 2026
Garrett’s victory lap begins this week in the Bay Area. The newly formatted Pro Bowl Games kick off Tuesday, Feb. 3 at 8 pm ET on ESPN. Garrett will headline the AFC roster in the Flag Football showdown, bringing his record-breaking energy to the Skills Showdown.
While the Browns missed the deep playoff run fans hoped for, No. 95 gave Cleveland a piece of immortality. The PFWA has already named him Defensive Player of the Year, and the AP award is all but guaranteed to follow.
What to Watch: Tune in Tuesday night to see if Garrett’s basketball background translates to the gridiron in the Flag Football finale. If his 2025 season is any indicator, the NFC quarterbacks better watch their flags.
