Myles Garrett’s draft stock continues to rise — and for more than the reasons you would expect.
The Texas A&M defensive end, projected to be the top selection in next month’s NFL Draft, joined Twitter on March 25 in an effort to stop creeps from impersonating him on social media.
Garrett’s mother, Audrey Garrett, alleges a predator tried to solicit minors for sex using a fraudulent “Myles Garrett” profile.
“In the end, Myles ended up having a social media presence — which he still doesn’t desire — but it is what it is,” she told the Star Telegram.
Garrett, 21, who remained social-media-free throughout his career at College Station, has tweeted 15 times since Sunday. His verified account has amassed upwards of 11,000 followers.
While social media allows athletes to connect with their fans on a modern platform, it can also lead to their demise. Dolphins offensive tackle Laremy Tunsil fell out of the top 10 during last year’s draft after a video of him smoking out of a gasmask bong was posted to his Twitter account during the first round. Tunsil slid to Miami at No. 13 overall.
It’s unlikely Garrett will endure a similar draft day nightmare after he received more rave reviews Thursday at Texas A&M’s pro day. He improved on his blistering 40-yard dash time by running in 4.62 seconds. The Browns hold the No. 1 overall pick, and Garrett recently dined with members of the Browns brain trust.
“He was the No. 1 player in high school, he is the No. 1 player now,” said Aggies head coach Kevin Sumlin, via CBS Sports. “They’ll figure it out.”
The NFL Draft commences in Philadelphia on April 27.