Los Angeles Rams edge rusher Jared Verse wants to play on both sides of the ball.
The reigning Defensive Rookie of the Year told Rich Eisen that he’s asked Rams head coach Sean McVay “thousands of times” to give him a few reps on offense. But every time, McVay “brushes it off.”
“I’m going to tell him again: ‘Put me on offense. Throw me the ball, dude,'” Verse said.
It’s not as if Verse doesn’t have a little experience playing offense.
Before he went Albany, he played receiver/tight end in addition to defensive end at Central Columbia High School in Bloomsburg, Pennsylvania. According to Max Preps, Verse caught 23 receptions for 487 yards and five touchdowns during his final two years of high school. When we went to Albany, Verse was asked if he’d rather play tight end or defensive end. Verse picked defense, and the rest is history.
It’s not uncommon for defensive ends to play a few snaps on offense, especially in the red zone. J.J. Watt caught three touchdowns during his time with the Houston Texans. Mike Vrabel caught 10 touchdowns during his NFL career.
Verse could certainly try a few plays if McVay wants. His 6-foot-4, 260-pound frame certainly helps. But, as Verse alluded to in the interview, it’s tough to try and play both sides of the ball.