Los Angeles Rams edge rusher Jared Verse is known for his relentless on-field trash talk, teasing and taunting opponents to gain a competitive edge. But there’s one player who earns his respect: San Francisco 49ers left tackle Trent Williams. Ahead of Thursday night’s NFC West showdown, Verse admitted he’ll temper his usual chatter against the 11-time Pro Bowler.
“I don’t lie down for anybody. I don’t change up who I am for anybody, but also, I’m not dumb,” Verse said. “I’d rather let a sleeping giant sleep. I’m not going to wake up anybody who’s minding their business. Especially somebody like that.”
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Verse recalled how Williams delivered his “Welcome to the NFL” moment during his rookie season, holding him in place on an outside zone run and laughing in his face.
“I’m like, ‘Bro, let go of me!’ Trent’s got a deep voice and I’m like, ‘Trent, let go of me!’ He’s like, ‘Ha ha ha, Verse. You’re funny as hell,’” Verse said.
The veteran tackle’s combination of experience, savvy, and raw power makes him a unique challenge.
“Trent’s one of the best linemen ever. He’s a first-ballot Hall of Famer for a reason,” Verse said. “With age, you’ve become more savvy. He’s figured out, ‘OK, I’m not even going to take this block head-on. I’m going to manipulate it.’ He’s going to mess with you a little bit, just enough that it makes you not be able to make the play. But he’s also still that dominant version of Trent, where it’s like he can get right in front of you, eat power, stop you in the pass rush. There’s a lot you’ve got to focus on to be successful against him.”
Versatility and Impact
Verse has followed up his Defensive Rookie of the Year season with an impressive start in 2025, recording two sacks, six quarterback hits, and 17 tackles through four games. Against the Colts, he added a memorable highlight by rushing up the middle, running over center Tanor Bortolini to force an incompletion.
“It’s something I enjoy,” Verse said. “I like being in different positions… to play them games from a different position. I like that.”
Head coach Sean McVay praised Verse’s energy and versatility:
“The energy, the pre-snap demeanor and the vibe that he’s brought to our group, I think he’s been excellent.”
Eyes on Thursday Night
Verse’s respect for Williams doesn’t mean the Rams’ edge rusher will hold back his game. L.A. ranks second in the league with 14 sacks and remains top 10 against both the run and pass.
“When we’re the best version of us, we can dog anybody,” Verse said.
Thursday’s showdown promises a clash of skill, experience, and strategy as Verse tests himself against one of the NFL’s all-time great offensive tackles.
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