Jared Verse has quickly developed into one of the NFL’s most talented young linebackers. Drafted in the first round of the 2024 Draft by the Los Angeles Rams, he was the Defensive Rookie of the Year for that season.
He followed it up with another impressive season in 2025 and is becoming one of the best in his position. After his recent move to the Cleveland Browns, he has not yet picked up a jersey number.
Browns clarify Jared Verse-Dillon Gabriel jersey number 8 situation
Verse had a solid 2025 season for the Los Angeles Rams and recorded 58 combined tackles, 7.5 sacks, and 3 forced fumbles. Despite only playing for two seasons, he has established himself as a rising talent.
He was recently traded to the Browns along with a 2027 first-round pick, a 2028 second-round pick, and a 2029 third-round pick. In return, Myles Garrett joined the Rams. The deal is being considered one of the best in NFL history.
Dec 7, 2025; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Los Angeles Rams linebacker Jared Verse (8) against the Arizona Cardinals at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Recently, there has been speculation about a feud between quarterback Dillon Gabriel and Verse over the the No. 8 jersey number. Both of them wore the same number during organized team activities (OTAs) in early June 2026, which fueled those speculations. Verse wore the same number during his time with the Rams, while Gabriel was given the number when he joined as a rookie in 2025.
However, the real reason is something else. NFL insider Mike Garafolo shared on Good Morning Football that the situation is not a dispute nor a negotiation. According to Garafolo, the Browns are waiting for a formal approval from the NFL for Gabriel to switch to a new jersey number.
Current league rules require approval for such changes, especially when the numbers in the 0-19 range and current roster numbers are limited. These numbers are usually reserved for the quarterbacks and skill players.
He further said that fans can purchase the Verse No. 8 jerseys, as he is expected to wear it next season. Before leaving the Rams for the Browns, Verse had one specific demand.
Jared Verse had one demand before Browns trade
Before the news of the deal became public, Rams head coach Sean McVay informed Verse of the move in his office alongside GM Les Snead. According to Sports Illustrated’s Albert Breer, the player only had one specific demand before agreeing to the move.
He asked permission to be the one to break the news to his teammates during the scheduled 10 a.m. team meeting. His wish was granted, and Verse reportedly handled the situation well and had a good talk with his teammates. McVay even said that he hoped his two sons would have the same maturity as the defensive end did, even calling him a “stud” affectionately.
Jared Verse will be preparing for the 2026 NFL season with his new team.