LOS ANGELES — If you’re not paying attention, you might miss Jared Verse, but his voice is hard to ignore. The rookie linebacker for the Los Angeles Rams, already a prime candidate for the NFL’s next standout pass rusher, has made quite an impression just eight games into his debut season. With a voice that commands attention, Verse is known for his chatter, whether he’s engaging with teammates in the locker room or exchanging banter on the field.
“When Jared is in the room, his presence is unmistakable,” said Chris Shula, the Rams’ defensive coordinator, with a smile. As the Rams (4-4) gear up to face the Miami Dolphins (2-6) on Monday night, Verse has quickly become an integral part of their defense, stepping up in the wake of Aaron Donald’s retirement. With 3 1/2 sacks and nine tackles for loss to his credit, Verse’s impact on opposing offenses is undeniable.
For September, he was honored as the NFL’s defensive rookie of the month, and his performance in October has solidified that recognition with another 2 1/2 sacks, four tackles for loss, and nine quarterback hits over four games. Currently, he is favored to win the defensive rookie of the year award, a title previously earned by Donald a decade ago.
“I’m not focused on any accolades,” Verse stated. “If I concentrate on doing what I need to do, everything else will follow. Success is more challenging to manage than failure—when you fail, there’s only room for improvement, but with success, there’s a risk of complacency. I’m going to keep pushing myself.”
His future looks incredibly promising, and whether he’s applying pressure on quarterbacks or engaging in conversation, he captivates those around him. Verse’s deep voice resonates throughout the cramped locker room, making it hard not to notice him when he articulates his thoughts or arguments. Post-practice, it’s a common sight to see him sparring verbally with former Florida State teammate Braden Fiske and fellow pass rushers Byron Young and Kobie Turner on topics ranging from video games to basketball and even who will end the season with the most sacks.
Last month, during a game against Minnesota, Verses’ microphone captured a mix of playful insults, boasts, and his natural charisma as he notched 1 1/2 sacks and three quarterback hits. “I definitely aim to get into opponents’ heads; it distracts them with something else to think about,” he said.
Since being the Rams’ first first-round draft pick in eight years, Verse has shown relentless energy and dedication. Quarterback Matthew Stafford remembers watching part of that initial training without pads, noting how Verse showed no hesitation in asserting himself. “He was running through people during practices. It has been incredible to witness his growth,” Stafford commented.
Growing up in Pennsylvania in a large family, Verse learned from his father, a former Marine, the value of hard work. He began his college career at Albany before making the jump to Florida State, where he emerged as a standout NFL prospect over two remarkable seasons. Rams general manager Les Snead was quick to target Verse for the team’s revitalization post-Donald, recognizing his lively personality and prowess even before meeting him. Snead referred to watching Verse’s scouting tape as “getting blinded” by his talent.
“When you watch film, it’s typically a two-dimensional experience. However, some players appear almost in a 3-D or 4-D manner,” Snead explained. “Combining his passion for football with urgency and tenacity, it felt like he thrived on disruption, much like an MMA fighter.”
During his time at Florida State, Verse formed a strong bond with Fiske, who also transferred in. Snead later selected Fiske in the second round of the draft, aiming to leverage their chemistry to enhance the Rams’ defense. After just two drafts, the Rams have assembled an impressive young defensive line. Their rookies and second-year players have combined for 15 sacks this season, leading the league. Pro Football Focus lists Verse leading all rookies with 39 pressures, with Fiske trailing at 26.
“In the beginning, our performance was solid, but now we’re on the path to earning a title of greatness for ourselves. While there’s still much work to be done, we’re taking the necessary steps,” Verse stated confidently.