NEW ORLEANS – The Rams had gone seven years without a first-round draft choice until 2024 when they selected outside linebacker Jared Verse. It seems that the anticipation was justified.

Verse was honored as the NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year at the NFL Honors ceremony on Thursday. He becomes the first Rams player to receive this award since retired defensive tackle Aaron Donald did in 2014.

Drafted as the 19th overall pick from Florida State, Verse made a significant impact on the Rams’ season, helping the team claim the NFC West title and reach the divisional round of the playoffs.

He topped the rookie charts with 18 quarterback hits, 77 pressures, and 56 hurries. Additionally, he recorded 66 tackles, 11 tackles for loss, 4½ sacks, and two forced fumbles. Verse played every regular-season game, starting in 16 of them.

During a 27-9 victory against the Minnesota Vikings in the wild card round of the playoffs, Verse intercepted a fumble and ran it back for a 57-yard touchdown. His performance in the divisional round was even more impressive, where he notched four tackles, two sacks, three tackles for loss, and two quarterback hits. This achievement made him the first rookie since Nick Bosa in the 2018 playoffs to achieve at least two sacks in a playoff game.

“He’s a phenomenal player,” Rams head coach Sean McVay remarked this season. “He’s a powerhouse. We are very proud of him and he’s doing an outstanding job.”

In his first season, Verse earned a spot in the Pro Bowl.

“He has gained the admiration of his teammates and coaches, which is wonderful to witness. We recognize his impact on the game within our organization,” Rams defensive coordinator Chris Shula stated in January. “He is a genuine three-down player and has consistently improved while fitting into our defensive strategy.”

Follow News Sports’ Tyler Dragon on X @TheTylerDragon.