Browns’ Garrett makes his case for softer hit

Myles Garrett looked composed and casual, a stark contrast to the last time he was seen in public.

Stylishly dressed in a bright blue suit and black turtleneck, the Cleveland Browns’ star defensive end met Wednesday with an appeals officer in hopes of getting a reduction to an indefinite NFL suspension that has temporarily ended Garrett’s season and tarnished his career.

Garrett was banned last week for the rest of the regular season and playoffs, if Cleveland makes them, for striking Steelers quarterback Mason Rudolph with a helmet. Garrett appealed and his case was heard by league-appointed officer James Thrash, a former NFL player, who will either lessen the penalty or put a definitive number of games on it.

The former No. 1 overall draft pick spent roughly two hours in the league’s Manhattan offices before leaving with his representatives. He did not speak to the media.

In the closing seconds of the Browns’ 21-7 victory over the rival Steelers on Thursday night, Garrett wrestled Rudolph to the ground before they scuffled. Pittsburgh’s QB unsuccessfully tried to rip off Garrett’s helmet before the two got to their feet.

That’s when Garrett yanked off Rudolph’s helmet, swinging it and connecting with the top of the QB’s head. Rudolph avoided injury and was not suspended.

On Wednesday, Rudolph, who likely will be fined for his involvement, said he doesn’t begrudge Garrett.

“I have no ill will toward Myles Garrett, great respect for his ability as a player and I know if Myles could go back he would handle the situation differently,” Rudolph said. “As for my involvement last week, there is no acceptable excuse. The bottom line is I should have done a better job keeping my composure in that situation.

“It falls short of what I believe it means to be a Pittsburgh Steeler and a member of the NFL.”

As part of his punishment, Garrett is required to meet with commissioner Roger Goodell’s office before he can be reinstated.

Earlier this week, Goodell and Hall of Fame linebacker Derrick Brooks heard appeals of Browns defensive tackle Larry Ogunjobi’s onegame suspension and Steelers center Maurkice Pouncey’s three-game ban.

Ogunjobi shoved a helmet-less Rudolph to the ground during the melee while Pouncey punched and kicked Garrett as he lay on the ground.