Rams News: Jared Verse a Top Contender for Defensive Rookie of the Year
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Jared Verse, the Los Angeles Rams' first-round pick in 2024, is poised to make a significant impact this season. Drafted 19th overall, Verse is the Rams' first first-round selection since 2016, and he enters the NFL with high expectations.
Despite most Defensive Rookie of the Year (DROY) contenders typically being top-10 picks, this year's draft saw a heavy focus on offensive talent. The first defensive player, Laiatu Latu, was taken 15th overall by the Indianapolis Colts, with Verse following just four picks later.
Verse's draft position and his impressive college stats make him a strong candidate for DROY. According to FanDuel Sportsbook, he has the third-best odds to win the award, trailing only Latu and Dallas Turner.
Verse's college career showcased his potential, with at least nine sacks in each of his last three seasons. Last year's DROY, Will Anderson Jr. of the Houston Texans, earned the award with seven sacks and ten tackles for loss. If Verse can adapt quickly to the NFL's higher level of competition, he has a solid chance to replicate or even surpass these numbers.
Winning DROY would place Verse in esteemed company, joining the ranks of Rams legend Aaron Donald, the last Ram to earn the honor.