The Los Angeles Rams made a significant addition to their defensive front by selecting edge rusher Jared Verse from Florida State University with the 19th overall pick in the NFL Draft.
Verse began his college career at the FCS level with Albany before transferring to Florida State, where he emerged as a star on the defensive line. He showcased his athleticism and pass-rushing skills, earning FCS Freshman All-America honors at Albany before making a successful transition to the FBS level.
In his first game for Florida State against LSU, Verse made an immediate impact with two crucial sacks and a blocked field goal. He went on to have two seasons with nine sacks each, contributing to the Seminoles’ undefeated 2023 campaign. Despite opting out of the Orange Bowl, Verse had already proven himself at the collegiate level.
Ranked 20th in Dane Brugler’s Top 300 big board, Verse is highly regarded for his relentless energy, explosive get-off, and impressive hand use. His physical traits and competitive nature make him a solid NFL starter with a high floor. Coaches and scouts have praised his intelligence, physicality, and ability to make the jump from a smaller program to a major college football powerhouse.
Verse’s selection adds depth and talent to the Rams’ defensive front, further strengthening their pass rush. His combination of power, speed, and tenacity should make him a valuable asset as he continues his football career in the NFL.
Jared Verse’s selection as a first-round pick in the NFL Draft can be attributed to several factors that make him an attractive prospect.
Firstly, Verse’s size-speed combination is highly coveted in the NFL. He possesses the physical tools necessary to excel at the professional level, and his abilities translated seamlessly when facing Power 5 competition. This ability to perform well against top-tier opponents indicates his readiness for the NFL.
Verse’s performances in clutch situations also contributed to his first-round status. He demonstrated his impact and ability to deliver in crucial moments during his time at Florida State University. Making key sacks in high-stakes games against teams like LSU and Louisville showcased his ability to rise to the occasion and make game-changing plays, further enhancing his value as a potential first-round pick.
Furthermore, as his college career progressed, Verse’s role evolved from being a breakout star to becoming one of several formidable members of Florida State’s defensive front. This transition demonstrated his versatility and adaptability as a player. It also provided a glimpse of the impact he could have as part of an NFL defense, even before he fully develops into a team’s primary weapon.
Overall, Verse’s combination of physical attributes, performances in critical moments, and his potential for growth and impact at the next level contributed to his selection as a first-round pick in the NFL Draft.
Scott Dochterman grades the selection of Jared Verse by the Los Angeles Rams as a B. He acknowledges that Verse may not reach the level of Aaron Donald, but he believes Verse is a solid choice for a team that hasn’t had a first-round pick since 2016. Dochterman describes Verse as a workmanlike technician with a great work ethic and notes his productivity during his time at Florida State.
According to Mike Sando, three out of six NFL executives he polled had Verse going in the top 10. Sando believes Verse will start immediately for the Rams opposite Byron Young and mentions that the Rams have needed another outside linebacker for some time. He views Verse’s power, combined with Young’s speed, as a potentially potent pass rush duo.
In terms of rookie impact, Verse is expected to make an immediate impact and start right away. The Rams lacked complementary pressure in 2023, and Verse’s presence should help address that issue. He will also benefit from playing alongside interior defensive lineman Kobie Turner, who led all rookies in sacks last season.
Dochterman notes that the Rams had interest in Dallas Turner but were fortunate that Verse, their top-ranked prospect, was still available. He suggests that Verse’s selection was a combination of addressing a significant need and luck in terms of the board falling their way.
Overall, the evaluations indicate that Verse is expected to have an immediate impact with the Rams and contribute to their pass rush in a meaningful way.
