The Cleveland Browns were picking No. 1 overall in the 2017 NFL Draft for a reason — the franchise is in terrible shape, and the roster is severely lacking for talent. Taking a step in the right direction, the Browns took the best prospect available in the draft instead of reaching for a quarterback despite a current need at the position. While he understands the state of the franchise’s past, Myles Garrett is eager to be part of the rejuvenation of Cleveland’s pro football team.

Soon after being taken with the first overall pick, the former Texas A&M standout defensive end discussed his excitement at becoming one of the foundation pieces used to turn things around in Cleveland. According to Pat McManamon of ESPN, Garrett isn’t running from the challenge currently facing his new team. Instead, Garrett is looking forward to the mission at hand.

“They picked me because they think they see something in me, and they know that I can help them rebuild and turn this program around,” Garrett said. “That’s the mindset that we have to have. Starting next year, we can put the pieces together, not only the players but with a mindset that we can actually do this.”

Despite being the consensus top prospect in the draft, many were questioning Garrett’s place atop the NFL draft board during the pre-draft process. For example, Garrett made headlines when he refused to join the ESPN radio show Mike & Mike after learning that Booger McFarland was co-hosting the show. Garrett soon acknowledged he did not care much for the criticisms thrown his way by McFarland.

Instead of letting the criticism get to his head, Garrett claims the talk will only further push him toward his ultimate NFL goals.

“It adds more fuel to the fire,” Garrett said. “It is burning hot right now.”

No matter what impressive feats Garrett has shown in his career up to this point, if he somehow manages to help pull Cleveland out from the NFL cellar and into the playoff picture during his career, it will prove to be the most astonishing achievement of his playing career. If that indeed happens for Cleveland, don’t expect any negativity to be thrown Garrett’s way ever again.