Myles Garrett’s Browns face new challenge as Jared Verse steps up to replace him

Myles Garrett’s Cleveland Browns have drafted Jared Verse to ease the load on the star defensive end. Verse opens up on the pressure to fill Garrett’s shoes and his rookie ‘welcome to the NFL’ moment.

What happened?

On 17 Jul 2026, Cleveland Browns rookie Jared Verse admitted he felt the weight of stepping into Myles Garrett’s role. Verse, the No. 3 pick in the 2024 draft, told reporters the moment hit him after the Browns’ first practice this week. Verse said he walked in knowing the Browns already had the NFL’s best defensive end in Garrett. The rookie called it a “welcome to the NFL” reality check.

Why it matters for Myles Garrett

Garrett, 28, remains the Browns’ unmatched force off the edge. Verse’s comments highlight the gap the Browns hope to bridge with fresh pass-rush talent. Garrett led the NFL in sacks last season with 14 and earned his fifth straight Pro Bowl. Verse’s arrival lets Garrett see less double coverage and stay fresher late in games. Garrett called Verse’s energy infectious during OTAs and praised his natural gifts.

What comes next?

The Browns open training camp on 25 Jul 2026 in Berea, Ohio. Verse will line up opposite Garrett in drills to build chemistry. Garrett said the plan is to keep Verse on the field early on obvious passing downs. Verse added he’s not worried about replacing Garrett-just learning from him. Garrett, meanwhile, eyes another sack title and a deep playoff run with a revamped defense.

How Verse fits the Browns’ plan

The Browns drafted Verse to pair with Garrett and Quinnen Williams inside. Verse logged 17 sacks in his final college season at Florida State and ran a 4.41-second 40-yard dash at the combine. Garrett said the staff wants Verse to rush from the edge while Garrett draws attention inside. Verse’s first camp snaps will come against the Browns’ top tight ends in 1-on-1 drills.