How good is Jared Verse? What to know about Browns' new edge rusher involves in shocking Myles Garrett trade

The football world may be talking about Myles Garrett after the Los Angeles Rams landed the superstar defender in a blockbuster move Monday, but Jared Verse is a huge addition for the Browns.

Garrett, a two-time NFL Defensive Player of the Year, was the headliner in Monday's trade, as he joins the Rams. But Verse is the major return piece for Cleveland, along with major draft capital. 

Verse was a first-round pick in the NFL Draft just two years ago, and has been a Pro Bowler in each of his first two NFL seasons. That's an honor that Garrett could not say after the start of his career was derailed by injuries. 

The Browns' new edge rusher is already one of the better players in the sport at his position. Here's what to know about Verse's future. 

MORE MYLES GARRETT NEWS:

• Rams-Browns trade grades
• Winners and losers of Myles Garrett trade
• Rams defense projection with Myles Garrett
• How Browns' Myles Garrett return compares

How good is Jared Verse? 

Verse is an excellent addition to any team and ranks as one of the better left edge rushers in the league. He's earned back-to-back Pro Bowl nods already, and was the Defensive Rookie of the Year in 2024. 

While Garrett led the NFL in sacks by a wide margin with 23.0, Verse continued to build on a standout defensive season in 2025, managing 7.5 sacks. That's good for 29th in the NFL. He also managed 53 sacking yards, which was 25th in the NFL. 

At his best, Verse can launch into stardom. His stats have improved year over year after being the best defensive rookie in the league. There's a serious argument that, should the Browns' rebuild allow them to chase a Super Bowl title in the next few years, Verse could be one of the league's very best by that time. 

As a result, a trade for Verse was a calculated investment in the future for the Browns. They now have a left edge rusher who can not only contribute at a Pro Bowl level immediately, but be an anchor of the defensive line for years to come. 

Browns EDGE depth chart

Garrett was the top edge rusher on the Browns' depth chart prior to the trade, and for many, the best edge rusher anywhere in football. He played the right side, however, with Verse slotting in on the left. 

As it stands, Verse is expected to slot in as a strongside linebacker for the Browns, playing alongside a strong defensive unit that includes Maliek Collins, Mason Graham and Alex Wright. 

Here's how the Browns depth chart is shaking out, with Verse leading the way for edge rushers. 

Jared Verse Madden rating 

Verse's Madden rating is an 88 overall. This puts him in a tie for the sixth-best left edge rusher in the NFL, joining the Bills' Greg Rousseau.

Jared Verse age 

Verse is currently 25 years old. He'll turn 26 on November 4. 

Jared Verse contract details

• Years: Four
• Value: $15.1 million

Verse was drafted in the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft, garnering him a hefty signing bonus of about $7.8 million. The rest of his deal is largely reminiscent of a rookie contract, earning a total of just over $15 million through four years, per Spotrac. 

Through the first two seasons of Verse's NFL career, he has made just over $10 million. In 2026, his contract is set for another uptick, with his base salary jumping from $960,000 to $1.075 million. 

Jared Verse stats 

In his rookie season, Verse was as good as any defensive rookie in the league. The key in 2025 was whether a sophomore slump may be incoming. He definitely put those doubts to rest. 

Verse's numbers improved in nearly every stat category. He added 3.0 sacks, nine QB hits, and a forced fumble. His tackles took a small step back but not by any significant margin. 

Here's a closer look at Verse's career numbers.