Browns acquire edge rusher Jared Verse in trade for Myles Garrett

The Cleveland Browns acquired edge rusher Jared Verse from the Los Angeles Rams on Monday in a trade that also sent a 2027 first-round pick, a 2028 second-round pick, and a conditional 2029 third-round pick to Cleveland. The 2029 selection converts to a first-round pick if Garrett is later traded to another AFC North team, according to a source cited by ESPN.

Verse's first comments as a Brown Verse said Wednesday after his initial practice that he is not trying to replace Garrett. "I'm not here to fill [Garrett's] shoes," he said. "I'm here to work, and I'm here to be the best version of me." Verse added that the best version of himself would be the best defensive player in the league and would play for the best defense in the league.

Background on the players Garrett, a two-time Defensive Player of the Year and the NFL's single-season sack record holder, departed Cleveland in the deal. Verse, selected 19th overall by the Rams in the 2024 draft, was named Defensive Rookie of the Year that season and has earned two Pro Bowl selections.

Verse, a 25-year-old native of Dayton, Ohio, said the trade news surprised him and initially left him upset. Former Rams teammates visited him at home before he concluded it was time to focus on work. Verse said the Browns' strong interest in acquiring him was a positive factor.

He arrived in Cleveland on Tuesday and took part in individual drills at practice on Wednesday wearing jersey number 8. Browns coach Todd Monken said Verse would fit the team's system and described him as an elite player with significant upside.