After a rookie season that ended with the NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year trophy back at his home, Rams outside linebacker Jared Verse graduated to a “podium guy” this fall, with a weekly, post-practice press conference. And with his Week 1 visit to the lectern, Verse exuded his unique combination of brash showman and zen worker bee.

“I don’t set goals for myself because whatever happens, happens,” Verse said when asked how he wanted to follow up his rookie campaign. “I focus on just being the best me one play, then the next play. That’s just how it goes.”

But, he added honestly, “Hopefully I beat last year’s numbers.”

For all the different ways that Verse earned his reputation across the NFL last season, closing the deal was not one of them. He was fourth among all edge rushers with

See Full Page