Jared Verse Says Trade Was Tough at First, But He’s Grateful the Browns Believe in Him

Jared Verse took part in his first practice with the Browns on Wednesday and later addressed reporters about the trade that brought him to Cleveland in exchange for Myles Garrett. The 2024 first-round pick and reigning defensive rookie of the year arrived as part of a larger deal that also included draft-pick compensation heading to the Browns, marking a major shift for both franchises and one of the biggest personnel moves of the offseason.

Verse said the news initially came as a shock and admitted his first reaction was not positive. He described being upset after learning he was leaving Los Angeles, where he said he felt strongly connected to the coaches, organization, teammates, staff and fans. For a time, he struggled with the idea of being moved, but he also acknowledged that trades are part of the business side of professional football and that teams act in what they believe is their own best interest.

Despite the surprise and disappointment, Verse said he has since gained a better perspective on the deal because of how the Browns explained their decision to acquire him. Hearing that Cleveland prioritized adding him helped him feel more comfortable with the move and more confident about the role he will now play. He said he is glad to be in Cleveland and appreciates that the Browns showed belief in him by making the trade.

Verse also made clear that he does not see his arrival as a simple replacement for Garrett. Rather than focusing on filling another player’s shoes, he said his goal is to be “the best me” and develop into the best version of himself. That approach, he said, is what matters most as he begins his time with the Browns.

The comments reflect both the personal and professional weight of the trade. For Verse, the move ends a brief but meaningful run in Los Angeles and starts a new chapter in Cleveland with high expectations attached. For the Browns, acquiring a young, highly regarded pass rusher signals a commitment to strengthening the defense and building around talent they believe can make an immediate impact.

Verse’s arrival gives Cleveland a major addition to its pass-rush plans, while his mindset suggests he is determined to treat the opportunity as a fresh start rather than a burden. If he can translate his confidence into production, the Browns may have landed one of the most significant defensive pieces of the offseason.