Early in the Browns’ season, Verse has not matched Garrett’s production and, more broadly, has not matched his own early-career levels. Through five games in 2026, Verse is on pace for zero sacks, having recorded no sacks thus far. This has raised questions about his ability to be a productive edge rusher and a potential replacement for Garrett.
Defensive coordinator Mike Rutenberg defended Verse, noting adjustments after changing teams and systems. “Anytime you move from team to team, system to system, there’s the normal adjustment. But in terms of the techniques and fundamentals, he’s picking up really, really well. He’s understanding the attack front. He did a lot of that playing his position at the Rams, and you’re seeing that. And I continue to see it every day in practice, in games, his get-off, disruption, edge setting, and his force as he rushes the passer and creates chaos in there,” Rutenberg said.
This situation continues to unfold as Verse works to translate practice progress into game-changing plays.
