The 2024 NFL Draft begins on Thursday, April 25, and Florida State edge rusher Jared Verse will be one of the players waiting in the wings to hear his name called on Night 1 in Detroit, Michigan. The Seminoles defensive end spent his first three seasons at Albany before transferring to Florida State, where he was named First-Team All-American and first-team All-ACC in both 2022 and 2023.
In 2022, Verse finished with 47 total tackles, including 22 solo tackles and nine sacks. He followed that up in 2023 with 41 total tackles, including 23 solos and nine sacks for a second consecutive year. He had 11 quarterback hurries, two forced fumbles, and a blocked kick in 2023, as well. Verse is expected to go in the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft.
Jared Verse: Scouting Report
NFL.com’s Lance Zierlein highlighted Verse’s quick release and backfield penetration in his scouting report.
Talented edge defender with the field demeanor, athleticism and skill set to rack up statistics in key categories fairly early in his NFL career. Verse dominated at Albany and then showed an ability to do the same at Florida State. He’s twitchy and compact, with explosiveness featured at the point of attack and in his upfield burst as a pass rusher. He’s great with his hands and does a nice job of diagnosing plays quickly and staying out of the clinches of offensive linemen looking to snatch him up. Verse’s ability to threaten the edge only bolsters his hellish speed-to-power bull-rushing ability to run tackles deep into the pocket.
Bleacher Report added details on his pass rush and run defense. Verse’s athleticism sets him apart from other edge rushers in his draft class.
Part of what makes Verse such a coveted prospect is his blend of strength and athleticism. He can put offensive tackles on their heels with his ability to turn speed to power as a pass-rusher, and he has good use of hands paired with the bend to win around the edge using finesse moves like a cross chop or arm over. The Seminole is also a plus run defender with his physicality at the point of attack and ability to get off blocks.
Mock Draft landing spots
The Athletic’s Bruce Feldman has Minnesota trading down to No. 17 to take Verse. Mel Kiper has Verse heading to Miami to join the Dolphins at pick No. 21. NBC’s Mike Florio sees the Raiders using their 13th overall pick to take the FSU edge rusher.