Upgrades abound in NFC West edition of first-round 2024 mock draft
By Jake Luppino
Seattle Seahawks Round 1, Pick No. 16 - EDGE Jared Verse, Florida State
The Seattle Seahawks have shown an effort in attempting to address the defensive line over the last few seasons. Whether it was selecting pass rushers in consecutive drafts in Derrick Hall and Boye Mafe or making an in-season trade to acquire Leonard Williams, even bringing back Jarran Reed, they haven't yet found the solution.
One of the reasons Pete Carroll is no longer with the Seattle Seahawks is the inexcusable run defense that was put on display over the last two seasons. That is why with the 16th pick, I have John Schneider feeding into the defensive identity of Mike Macdonald and selecting edge rusher Jared Verse out of Florida State.
Starting on some draft profiles for FSU players ahead of Thursday's NFL Draft.
— Brendan Sonnone (@BSonnone) April 23, 2024
Jared Verse gets us going. Remember the time when he had 18 QB Pressures in a two-game stretch, and used an offensive tackle to sack the QB in each game? pic.twitter.com/OWHd3GSpGw
The power jumps off the tape when watching Verse. He was a dominant force at Florida State that continually racked up stats. When I watch him, I see a motor that will translate well over into the NFL. Very much so like we see with Aiden Hutchinson. As a rookie, your power might be minimized in comparison to that of an opposing offensive lineman. But, when you are relentless in your pursuit, it wears an opponent down and eventually allows your power to seep through.
Most importantly, one of the main reasons I like Verse at 16 if he is available is his ability to set the edge. Verse would play opposite of Uchenna Nwosu, whose injury was a large reason why the Seattle run defense struggled, paired with Leonard Williams in the interior and with the coaching of Mike Macdonald, I think this Seattle defensive front will be significantly improved.