Myles Garrett is done hiding his frustrations. The reigning Defensive Player of the Year isn’t just tired of losing. He’s tired of the misery that comes with it. And he made his point clear as the Browns prepare to face the Cincinnati Bengals in a critical Week 16 matchup.

Garrett expressed his satisfaction at potentially derailing the Bengals’ playoff hopes. “Misery loves company, so it would feel pretty good,” he said, referencing Cleveland’s ability to knock Cincinnati out of contention. Adding fuel to the fire, Garrett also didn’t mince words when discussing the Browns’ lack of direction.

“I’m not trying to rebuild,” Garrett said (via cleveland.com). “I’m trying to win right now… I want them to be able to illuminate that for me, illustrate that for me, so that can be something that I can see in the near future.” His statement highlights his growing impatience with a franchise stuck in mediocrity. For Garrett, loyalty to Cleveland hinges on one thing—building a winning culture.

The apparent frustration mirrors the Browns’ struggles sitting at a dismal 3-11. Garrett amassed 11 sacks, to complement his 38 tackles and 3 forced fumbles in the season. Despite the DE’s stellar season, the Browns have failed to capitalize on his dominance. His ultimatum signals a tipping point, forcing the team’s management to confront its long-term strategy.

Meanwhile, Joe Burrow and co. cling to slim postseason hopes. Sitting at 6-8, Cincinnati must win out while hoping for favorable results elsewhere. Garrett’s threat to end their dreams only amplifies the pressure on Burrow as he leads his team into this literal do-or-die matchup. Can Burrow clinch a win amid the noise around his relationship off the field?

Browns’ misery meets Bengals’ desperation

For the Bengals, this game isn’t just about survival—it’s about proving resilience. And Chase Brown can be the X-factor, as sports writer Paul Dehner Jr. sees some bright spots for the Bengals. Dehner mentions that the Bengals have scored at least 27 points in each of their last six games. And Brown has been a key contributor. He also ranks third in the league in yards from scrimmage. However, Burrow and his team face an uphill battle against a Browns defense led by Garrett. Someone who’s eager to share his misery.

The Browns’ defense remains one of the few bright spots in an otherwise bleak season. Garrett’s relentless pass-rushing ability has been a nightmare. A nightmare for all opposing QBs throughout the season. However, Dehner predicts that the Bengals should win comfortably since the Browns’ offense lacks the firepower. Joe Burrow’s offense is now expected to overpower the Browns offense, now starting 2nd-year QB Dorian Thompson-Robinson. As for Garrett, his ultimatum extends beyond this game.

Garrett’s making it clear he won’t waste his prime years on a team without a vision, with 2 years left on his $125 million contract. Ultimately, this matchup highlights the crossroads for both teams. For the Browns, it’s about salvaging pride in another lost season. For the Bengals, it’s about clinging to hope and overcoming adversity.

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Whether Garrett stays in Cleveland or not, one thing is certain. He is no longer settling for mediocrity. And as the Browns prepare to face the Bengals, Garrett’s determination might be the difference between victory and misery.