The Los Angeles Rams have found a defensive gem and locker room energizer in rookie Jared Verse. The first-round draft pick out of Florida State has burst onto the scene, establishing himself as both a pass-rushing force and an elite trash talker in his debut NFL season.
Rapid Rise to Stardom
Verse, the Rams’ first opening-round selection since 2016, is making an immediate impact and currently leads the race for NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year. Through 16 weeks, the dynamic edge rusher ranks first among rookies in quarterback hits (17), tackles for loss (11), and is tied for the rookie lead with two passes batted and two fumble recoveries.
His 66 quarterback pressures are tied for fifth-most in the entire NFL, an incredible 15 more than the next closest rookie. Verse’s explosive first step, arsenal of pass-rush moves, and relentless motor have offensive linemen struggling to slow him down.
Trash Talk Taken to New Heights
Verse’s impact goes beyond statistics – his fiery demeanor and competitive drive have helped energize the Rams’ defense. And a major part of that is his elite-level trash talk, which teammates say is unrivaled.
“Sometimes I’m just, ‘Jared, please shut up. Let’s go. Come on. It’s enough,'” says fellow rookie Braden Fiske. “But I just let him do his thing. It’s kind of like his strength on the field, his yelling at other people.”
– Braden Fiske, Rams DT
Verse’s verbal onslaughts are non-stop, from kickoff to final whistle. He’ll chirp at offensive linemen, receivers, even players he’s not directly facing. It’s all part of his plan to get in opponents’ heads and give his team an mental edge.
Bringing the Energy, Providing a Spark
While the constant chatter can occasionally exasperate teammates, they recognize the energy and swagger Verse provides is invaluable. His infectious personality and passion for the game help keep the defense fired up.
“He’s really the battery to our group. The energy he brings, everything. He makes me want to go harder. Since he got here, I improved on so many things.”
– Byron Young, Rams OLB
Young and other teammates say that when they need a boost, they can count on Verse to provide that spark, both with his play and his voice. His brand of swagger, rooted in supreme confidence and work ethic, is contagious in the locker room.
Evolving within the Defense
Despite all the highlights, Verse’s rookie campaign hasn’t been without some growing pains. Early on, there were times he’d free-lance too much in an effort to make the hero play, rather than fully executing his role within the defensive scheme.
“Sometimes that can be a detriment…I think the beauty of Jared is that he anticipates he can make every play, but you also have to play within the framework of the defense.”
– Joe Coniglio, Rams OLB Coach
As the season has progressed, Verse has grown tremendously in trusting his teammates and playing disciplined, assignment-sound football. Veterans like DT Kobie Turner have worked closely with Verse, challenging him to harness his immense talent within the structure of the defense.
The results are showing, as Verse has become an every-down force while helping elevate the entire unit. His sack totals may not be gaudy, but his impact is undeniable. When the Rams need a play, Verse delivers with regularity.
The Future is Bright
With the Rams fighting for a playoff spot in the final two weeks, they’ll rely heavily on their rookie phenom to wreak havoc in the backfield and energize the team with his unique blend of elite talent and trash talk.
Given his rapid development, high character, and the respect he’s earned from coaches and teammates alike, Jared Verse has all the makings of a defensive cornerstone for years to come in Los Angeles. The future is bright for this rising star and the Rams’ defense as a whole.
