In the summer of 2026, the Cleveland Browns made a bold move that reshaped their defense and raised plenty of questions. They have traded their star defensive end Myles Garrett and acquired Jared Verse with multiple draft picks.
Many thought Jared Verse will replace Garrett but the reality is quite different. Head coach Todd Monken has already told Verse what he needs to be and it’s not a replacement for Garrett.
Todd Monken wants Jared Verse to be himself
Jared Verse joined the Cleveland Browns in a major June 1, 2026, trade that sent star defensive end Myles Garrett to the Los Angeles Rams. In return, the Browns received Verse, a 2027 first-round pick, a 2028 second-round pick, and a 2029 third-round pick. The trade positioned Verse as the centerpiece of Cleveland’s return package rather than just the draft capital. Upon arriving, Verse made clear he was not trying to replace Garrett. “I’m not here to fill his shoes. I’m here to bring my own,” Verse said.
New head coach Todd Monken called him a perfect schematic fit. On the October 23, 2026, episode of The Rich Eisen Show, first-year Browns head coach Todd Monken discussed his initial conversations with Verse after the trade. “Isn’t it cool to be wanted? … We wanted you here. We would not have done the trade without him involved in it. We would not have done it for just future picks,” Monken said.
“You don’t have to try to be Myles Garrett. … Just be you. Myles is already taken,” he added talking about Verse. As he was involved in the trade of Myles Garrett, many think Browns see him as Garrett’s replacement but Monken has cleared up misconception and claimed that they need Jared Verse to be himself.
Jared Verse to play important role for the Browns
Verse is expected to be a high-volume disruptor rather than a pure one-for-one statistical replacement. In the Browns’ scheme, he primarily lines up as a traditional defensive end often in a wide-9 alignment on the right side with his hand in the dirt.
Coaches emphasize using his explosive get-off, power, and relentless style to set the edge against the run, rush the passer, and create chaos in the backfield. Head coach Todd Monken and others have highlighted his upside in an “attacking front,” noting his ability to disrupt without overthinking reads.
Through the first six games of the 2026 season, Verse has recorded no sacks but has posted solid supporting production, including multiple tackles for loss, pressures (hurries and hits), and consistent involvement. He has downplayed the sack drought, stressing team success over individual stats. “I’m not frustrated at all. I mean shit, we’re winning.” Verse said.
Beyond pure production, Verse has quickly taken on a leadership and culture-setting role. He is vocal in practice, brings high energy, and has been observed tutoring younger players.
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