Few can match LeBron James in strength training, yet Myles Garrett is a notable exception. Similarly, few would address the 2023 NFL Defensive Player of the Year as “Lil Bro,” except for King James.
A viral collaboration showcasing an NFL-caliber workout between these Cleveland sports icons grabbed widespread attention on social media, drawing comments from figures like Travis Kelce of the Kansas City Chiefs.
In an Instagram post filled with photos and videos of their workout, James exclaimed, “IRON SHARPENS IRON!!” He lauded their effort as a meeting of “Big Bro & Big Lil Bro,” where he shared his comprehensive training insights with Garrett.
James, the former Cavaliers star, did not hide his admiration for the Cleveland Browns’ standout’s gym prowess, declaring Garrett an “ABSOLUTE BEAST.”
Ohio’s own Travis Kelce expressed his admiration for the Cleveland duo’s collaboration by adding fire and muscle emojis to James’ Instagram post.
Speculation about James’ potential in the NFL arises naturally. The Lakers forward has demonstrated his ability to keep up with football’s top defensive talent. James was once a top football prospect in Ohio during high school, likened to a “taller, slower version of Randy Moss.”
Jay Brophy, James’ high school football coach, mentioned that James received college football offers from premier institutions like Notre Dame, Miami, Alabama, and Ohio State.
Moreover, during the 2011 NBA lockout, James received actual NFL contract offers from the Dallas Cowboys’ Jerry Jones and the Seattle Seahawks’ Pete Carroll. James confidently believed in his ability to earn a spot on an NFL roster.
“I would have made the team,” James assured in a 2021 interview with The Athletic. He was prepared to work hard, whether trying out for the Cowboys or the Seahawks or potentially returning to Cleveland.
While James’ recent workout video hints at what might have been in the NFL, he remains focused on his current basketball season with the Lakers, particularly the upcoming game against the Clippers.