Cleveland Browns: There is more to playing defense than just sacks
Defensive end Jared Verse does not have a sack through four games. But he has still made an impact on defense.
The NFL often focuses on dramatic moments in games, such as touchdowns, crucial returns, or late-game sacks. While these moments are crucial, the game involves more than just these highlights, especially regarding sacks. Consider a scenario where the offense faces a third-and-long. If the quarterback drops back to pass, and the defense doesn't achieve a sack, they might still pressure the quarterback into an incomplete pass or a short throw.
The defense then returns to the sideline, having accomplished their goal, even if their contribution doesn't make the highlight reel. This discussion is particularly relevant for the Cleveland Browns' defensive performance this season. The team has recorded 12 sacks in their 3-1 start, with eight different players securing at least one sack.
However, Jared Verse, the defensive end, is absent from this list. One might quickly assume Verse is not contributing effectively, leading to concerns for the Browns. However, this perspective overlooks the fact that sacks represent only one aspect of a player's impact on a game. Jared Verse, who entered the season with the fifth-most quarterback pressures among defensive ends since 2024, is a prime example of how a player can significantly influence a game without recording a sack.
Robert Mays and Derrick Klassen, co-hosts of The Athletic Football Show, compared Verse to Jadeveon Clowney, who had similar impact during his time with the Browns. Similarly, Hall of Fame offensive tackle Joe Thomas weighed in on Verse's performance, stating that he has been a bust since the Garrett trade, with zero sacks through four games.
Yet, Verse leads the Browns in pressures, with six of those coming against the Carolina Panthers. His rush helped Mason Graham and Isaiah McGuire secure a touchdown. The key takeaway is that a rush that moves the quarterback is a win, even when the tackle is made by someone else. This perspective highlights that even if Jared Verse doesn't accumulate sacks on the weekly highlight reel, he remains a valuable asset to the Browns' defense.
Written by urgent.news from Yahoo Sports's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
