The Los Angeles Rams (3-4) couldn’t have drafted a better defensive player with the 19th overall pick in last year’s draft. Rookie linebacker Jared Verse was recently awarded the mid-season Defensive Rookie of the Year award by Pro Football Focus.

Verse has been successful since his very first NFL game and had his best performance to date in Week 8 against the Minnesota Vikings. He recorded three tackles and 1.5 sacks in the win. In his first seven NFL games, Verse has 29 tackles, 2.5 sacks and a forced fumble.

There is no doubt that the first-year backer is destined for this stage, but getting off to such a successful start while also winning a mid-season prize is something that cannot be underestimated. His quick twitch ability to beat blockers made him a major asset.

The former Florida State Seminole is just 23 years old and, as expected, has shown that his energy level is unmatched. Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford was asked earlier this week what Verse it’s like training and his ability to translate that onto the field of play on Sunday.

“As far as Verse (LB Jared Verse), when he got here, yeah, he was pretty talkative,” Stafford said. “You know, he loves to compete. He’s an aggressive guy, he’s finally figured out what it’s like to practice on an NFL football field with his teammates, then save all that energy he really wants to chirp at us at the training and going wild on Sunday. So, I think he’s doing a good job.