The Los Angeles Rams, with a first-round pick for the first time sine 2016, selected edge rusher Jared Verse with the 19th overall pick.
Verse, fills a void for the Rams as they sought to find someone to deliver pressure from the outside.
That was particularly true in the wake of All-Pro tackle Aaron Donald’s retirement, as the heat he used to bring from the middle would vanish.
So L.A. went with Verse after he wrecked havoc for Florida State last season as an All-Athletic Coast Conference pick. The 6-4, 254-pound Verse had nine sacks, 50 pressures and 41 tackles.
It was odd that L.A. was active in the opening round considering its recent history.
The Rams have long leaned on peddling high picks for players, dating to them zooming up the roster to draft quarterback Jared Goff in ‘16.
But this year, from a plush home serving as the team’s draft headquarters in Hermosa Beach, Calif., the Rams’ brain trust couldn’t take off the first day of the NFL draft.
The Rams, who were a surprising 10-7 last season in advancing to the playoffs, had filled some holes during the offseason in their offensive line and the secondary.
What they hadn’t addressed, until the draft, was their tepid pass rush that needed attention.
Verse played his final two years for the Seminoles after being a transfer from Albany. His quickness is what stands out, complemented by his athleticism and power.
Spotrac speculated that Verse will sign a four-year, $15.1 million deal, all of which will be guaranteed.
