Jared Verse Has Analyzed Aaron Rodgers' Timing
The Cleveland Browns pass rusher addressed the challenge of pressuring Aaron Rodgers ahead of the next matchup.
Updated on Sept. 29, 2026 in Football
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Cleveland Browns defensive lineman Jared Verse spoke on Tuesday regarding his strategy to pressure Aaron Rodgers. The pass rusher is looking to increase his production as he faces a quarterback who holds the ball significantly longer this year.
Why it matters
Understanding Rodgers' tendency for longer dropbacks is crucial for a Browns defense aiming to force quick errors. Verse's ability to adjust his positioning will be central to whether the team can improve its defensive pressure efficiency.
Jared Verse has recorded two quarterback hits and zero sacks through three weeks of play, compared to his 7.5 sacks total last season. Meanwhile, Rodgers ranks 17th leaguewide with an average snap-to-throw time of 2.78 seconds.
The players
Jared Verse
Jared Verse is a pass rusher for the Cleveland Browns who recorded 7.5 sacks during the previous season.
Aaron Rodgers
Aaron Rodgers is a veteran NFL quarterback known for his use of scramble drills and downfield passing.
Cleveland Browns
The Cleveland Browns are a professional NFL team based in Cleveland that competes in the AFC North.
Pittsburgh Steelers
The Pittsburgh Steelers are a professional NFL team based in Pittsburgh that features an offensive line the Browns are preparing to face.
The details
Jared Verse plays primarily on the right side of the defensive line, though the Browns may move him around to test the Pittsburgh offensive line. The challenge remains significant, as Rodgers utilizes downfield throws and scramble drills that naturally increase his ball-holding time.
Timeline
Last year, Aaron Rodgers held the ball for an average of 2.60 seconds.
Through three weeks of the current season, Rodgers has held the ball for 2.78 seconds.
Jared Verse commented on Rodgers' snap-to-throw time on Tuesday.
Roadmap
This defensive approach mirrors the broader NFL trend of utilizing advanced tracking data to scheme against mobile, veteran quarterbacks who extend plays. By adjusting his alignment, Verse attempts to bridge the gap between his past sack production and the current league-wide defensive reality.
The Browns move Verse across the defensive front to manipulate individual matchups against the Pittsburgh offensive line. This strategic shift is designed to improve Verse's current sack total, which has remained at zero through the first three weeks of play.
The takeaway
Quarterbacks who extend plays via scramble drills require disciplined pass rushers to maintain their lane integrity throughout the snap. Defensive players must adapt their technique to compensate for the increased time they are forced to spend in engagement during these long-developing plays.
Further reading
For more on the current team dynamic, see our coverage of Cleveland Football.
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