The Cleveland Browns made one of the NFL's biggest moves when they traded Myles Garrett to the Los Angeles Rams. Cleveland sent its defensive superstar away and received Jared Verse in return, immediately placing enormous expectations on the young pass rusher.

Garrett had just delivered a historic 2025-26 season, breaking the NFL's single-season sack record. So, losing a player who could dominate games individually created obvious concerns about whether Cleveland could replace his production.

Verse has not exactly answered those questions statistically. His numbers have remained modest since joining the Browns, and he still has not recorded a sack this season.

However, Cleveland's defense has continued to perform at a high level. Now, Denzel Ward, speaking on the PFF NFL Show, has revealed that Verse brings something different to the locker room, giving the Browns another reason to appreciate the trade.

"Definitely brought a lot of juice and just mentality as well. Myles is a heck of a player...but I think Jared he's more vocal...more of a vocal player, vocal leader."

Ward's comments highlight an important difference between the two stars. Garrett could lead through his production and presence, but Verse has quickly embraced a louder leadership role within Cleveland's defense.

Jared Verse Is Helping the Browns Defense Thrive as a Unit

That leadership matters because Cleveland has avoided becoming overly dependent on one player. Verse may not have filled Garrett's stat sheet, but his presence has helped the defensive front maintain pressure and allowed other players to make plays.

The Browns have created a stronger collective identity on defense, which makes Verse's impact difficult to measure through sacks alone. His ability to generate pressure, move quarterbacks, and contribute to the team's mentality has given Cleveland another valuable piece.

Garrett's production will always make comparisons inevitable. Still, if Verse continues helping the Browns defend as a complete unit while growing into his leadership role, Cleveland may eventually view the blockbuster trade in a very different light.

Written by

Joseph Nithin