Myles Garrett Crowned NFL Defensive Player of the Year in Historic Season
Myles Garrett did not merely collect another trophy at the NFL Honors ceremony. He cemented his legacy with a performance that will be remembered as one of the most commanding defensive campaigns in professional football history. The Cleveland Browns' formidable pass rusher was officially awarded the prestigious Defensive Player of the Year title, a recognition that followed his shattering of the league's single-season sack record.
A Record-Breaking Achievement on the Field
Garrett's season was defined by relentless pressure and sheer dominance. He amassed an astonishing 23 sacks, decisively surpassing the previous benchmark of 22.5. This monumental feat not only secured his individual accolade but also etched his name permanently into the NFL record books. During his acceptance speech, Garrett remained characteristically composed and gracious, dedicating moments to acknowledge the immense dedication, rigorous training, and strategic preparation that culminated in those staggering statistics.
A Night of Celebration and Personal Triumph
The red carpet in San Francisco became a stage for Garrett's personal victory lap. Dressed in a striking, cowboy-inspired ensemble, he stood proudly flanked by his beaming parents as photographers captured the moment. The atmosphere was electric, a tribute to his power, unwavering persistence, and meticulous preparation. Despite the physical absence of his girlfriend, champion snowboarder Chloe Kim, who was overseas training for the Winter Olympics, the evening resonated with deep personal emotion and created an unforgettable memory for the athlete.
Chloe Kim's Heartfelt Support from Across the Globe
Chloe Kim, though thousands of miles away in Italy preparing for her third Olympic appearance, ensured she was part of the celebration. Shortly after Garrett accepted his award, the two-time Olympic gold medalist took to social media to express her joy and pride. Her post, though succinct, carried significant weight: "Soooo major!! ⭐❤️." This brief, heartfelt public declaration underscored the strong bond and mutual support defining their high-profile relationship, even when their demanding athletic careers keep them continents apart.
Two Champions, Parallel Journeys
As Garrett's landmark NFL season concludes, Kim's own monumental challenge is just beginning. The 25-year-old snowboarding phenom is poised to defend her Olympic gold medal in the women's halfpipe event. Her career is already historic; she became the youngest woman to win Olympic gold in snowboarding at 17 in Pyeongchang and then secured a second gold in Beijing, achieving the distinction of being the first woman to win the event twice consecutively.
Their relationship, first noted publicly when they were seen together at the Crunchyroll Anime Awards in Tokyo, has since flourished in the spotlight. They have shared meaningful moments, from attending Cleveland Browns games together to Kim's public endorsements following Garrett's career milestones. They represent two elite athletes operating in vastly different arenas—the gridiron and the snow-packed halfpipe—yet they are united by a shared, ferocious drive to be the best in their respective fields. Their story demonstrates that even when separated by oceans, they consistently show up for each other when it matters most.
The consensus across the league was clear: Myles Garrett was the undisputed best defensive player this season. His record-shattering sack total of 23 was the exclamation point on a campaign of pure dominance. While his speech focused on gratitude and the grind, the silent, supportive presence of Chloe Kim, echoed in her social media reaction, highlighted the personal foundation behind his professional success. Their journeys continue to inspire, showcasing excellence, dedication, and the power of support at the highest levels of sport.