The Los Angeles Rams drafted Florida State edge rusher Jared Verse with the 19th overall pick on Thursday night, giving them a future pass rusher they can build their defensive front around post-Aaron Donald.
After the draft, head coach Sean McVay outlined the team's vision and plan for Verse in their defense.
McVay outlines plan for Jared Verse: "That's to be determined...He'll play outside linebacker in our base defense, he'll play end. He does have the flexibility to slide and reduce down and play over a guard...I think we'll see. The tape at Florida State is pretty encouraging"
— AJ Schulte (@AJSchulteFB) April 26, 2024
From Verse's scouting report, which you can find here:
"Verse is a classic power-rusher, often opting to simply go through opposing linemen to get to the quarterback. Verse flies off the snap with his elite explosiveness, and his ability to convert speed-to-power overwhelmed opponents routinely. Verse is a talented run defender, capable of shedding blocks and knocking linemen back with his use of hands and play strength. He would be at his best playing with his hand in the dirt but can be moved around the formation."
The Rams have openly stated their love for versatility with their pass rushers, and McVay specifically mentioned Verse has the ability to kick inside in certain looks as well as play both OLB and defensive end for their scheme. Their rush package being able to throw Kobie Turner, Jared Verse, Byron Young, and Michael Hoecht out at teams is pretty intriguing, and certainly gives first-year defensive coordinator Chris Shula some more flexibility and will let him get creative with how he deploys Verse around the formation.
