Jared Verse was originally a zero-star recruit with only one scholarship offer from Albany. He committed there and was named 2020 CAA Defensive Rookie of the Year. In 2021, he transferred to Florida State where he would emerge as the game wrecker we all know and love. In 25 starts as a Seminole, Verse racked up 89 tackles, 29.5 tackles for loss, and 18 sacks. This stellar play earned him All-American First and Second Team and All-ACC First Team.
Jared Verse, EDGE, Florida State
Name: Jared Verse
Jersey: No. 5
Position: Edge Rusher
School: Florida State
Class: Redshirt Junior
Height: 6-foot-4
Weight: 260 lbs.
#FSU Edge Jared Verse has declared for the #NFLDraft
Future star pic.twitter.com/q5jqvj3izx
— CFBTalkDaily (@CFBTalkDaily) December 19, 2023
Strengths
When you watch Jared Verse, the main thing that stands out is how refined his technique is. His hand usage is spectacular, being able to consistently win at the point of attack and gain leverage over the blocker. His ability to perfectly time his punches and swat away the hands of the blocker is NFL-ready. His go-to moves are a swim or chop, but he also has an arsenal of pass-rushing moves he can use.
Another strong aspect of his game is his run defense. As mentioned before, he’s able to win at the point of contact in almost every rep. This gives him the ability to control and disengage from the blocker, making him a reliable run-stopper. He holds his ground, ensuring he doesn’t let the blockers get to the next level of the defense.
An underrated aspect of his game is his football IQ. He has the ability to read and react to a play proficiently. Whether it’s a play-action or read option, Verse can track the ball and make a play on it.
Weaknesses
Verse lacks flexibility. He’s stiff and his ability to bend the edge is subpar. He can’t go under blockers or flatten angles to get to the quarterback. His change of direction is also concerning. There’s a noticeable change in speed when he tries to change directions.
The main concern with Verse is the fact that he’s already 23. This is very old for a prospect coming out of college. He could’ve declared for the draft last season but decided to stay, which now makes his age concerning.
Analysis
Player Comparison: Ryan Kerrigan
This is a common comparison for Verse, but there are numerous similarities. They’re the same height, both standing at 6-foot-4, and are only separated by seven pounds in weight. On the field, they are both spectacular technicians, mostly relying on their hand usage and pass-rush moves to win reps. They are also strong against the run and proven reliable run defenders.
Draft Grade: Early to Mid First-Round Pick
I have Verse ranked as the No. 2 EDGE prospect and he should be drafted somewhere in the pick No. 8 to 16 range. Some landing spots for him include the Minnesota Vikings, Arizona Cardinals, and New Orleans Saints. These teams’ defensive line rooms could use a boost and Verse would bolster them immediately.
Rookie Projection: Quality Starter
Third-Year Projection: Pro Bowler
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