NFL Makes Major Announcement About Two Rams Rookies

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Zachary Howell | Last updated Feb 4, 2025 3:50 PM ET

The Los Angeles Rams had an up-and-down season this year, but two of the bright spots of the team were their draft picks. Jared Verse and Braden Fiske were selected with the 19th and 39th overall selections in the 2025 draft, respectively, and developed into key contributors to a playoff defense.

Fiske and Verse were recognized for their efforts, both being selected as finalists for the Defensive Rookie of the Year award, which will be awarded at the NFL Honors ceremony on February 6th. Verse is currently the betting favorite to take home the award, trailed by Quinyon Mitchell and Chop Robinson.

Fiske and Verse had big shoes to fill after Rams legend Aaron Donald announced his retirement last year, and they performed admirably as successors to his greatness.

Verse and Fiske had great rookie seasons, both intangibly and via their counting stats. Fiske leads the 2025 class in total sacks, racking up 8.5 this season, which is good for the best total on the Rams. Verse had 4.5 sacks of his own, forcing and recovering two fumbles and making 66 tackles last season.

Verse has made bold statements throughout the season, including one about the Philadelphia Eagles before their second-round playoff loss, but he and Fiske backed up their words with their play.

The Rams are in the process of ushering in a new era, marked by their decision to shop Cooper Kupp in trade, but their defense is in very capable hands moving forward under their two stellar rookies on the defensive line.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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