NFL star said he was punched by ‘fan’ wanting picture

One of the most physically-imposing men in American sport was stunned when a fan asked for a photo — and then punched him in the face.

The Cleveland Browns are even taking hits off the field.

NFL defensive end Myles Garrett said he was punched in the face by a “fan” who wanted to take a picture with him.

Garrett posted on his Twitter account the person “hopped” out of his car before delivering a blow that had little effect on the muscular 193cm, 122kg star.

A “fan” hopped out his car to take a picture with me and then punched me in my face. Hm, put your legs into it might have actually made me flinch. 👍🏾

— Myles "Flash" Garrett ⚡️ (@MylesLGarrett) October 16, 2019

“Was in my car, flagged me down for a picture and I cracked the window enough for the camera to get my face,” Garrett tweeted.” Took the pic and gave me a pillow tap.”

A Browns spokesman said the team is aware of the incident “and appropriate law enforcement authorities have been notified.”

An ESPN report said Cleveland police had identified the suspect as Richard Perez, 24, of Strongsville, Ohio.

Preciate the video but how you gonna start recording AFTER I got punched 😂 Lmao you can’t make this stuff up. Dude took a pic. Gave me a soft bop. And SLID. #fakelove #jeremyisokay https://t.co/lg6QXnkdyC

— Myles "Flash" Garrett ⚡️ (@MylesLGarrett) October 16, 2019

The No. 1 overall pick in the 2017 draft, Garrett is tied for the NFL lead with nine sacks.

The 23-year-old and his teammates practised earlier in the day at the team’s headquarters before being excused during their bye week.

Myles Garrett is not a man to mess with. (Photo: Nick Cammett/Getty Images)

The Browns are just 2-4 after being picked as a potential Super Bowl contender following a busy off-season. They play the defending champion Super Bowl champion New England Patriots on October 28.

Myles Garrett celebrates one of his nine sacks from this season. Picture: Elsa/Getty Images

— AP