Story perspectives

Jared Verse's Record-Setting Blocked Field Goal Sparks Rams' Comeback

1/3/2026

50 9

Summary

Story summary

Jared Verse of the Los Angeles Rams blocked a field goal and returned it 76 yards for a touchdown—the first of his career—to cut the Falcons' lead to 24-17.
Verse reached a top speed of 20.21 mph, a record for defenders over 260 pounds since 2016.
Despite the play, the Rams lost 27-24 and fell to 11-5.
Verse has been named to the Pro Bowl for the second consecutive year.

History

Historical Context

In 2016, the NFL introduced new rules aimed at enhancing player safety, including banning chop blocks and refining instant replay protocols. These changes reflected a growing emphasis on player welfare and strategic adaptations in the game. Jared Verse's record speed of 20.21 mph exemplifies the evolution of athleticism among defenders, particularly those over 260 pounds, highlighting the ongoing transformation in training and performance metrics.

1 of 2

Story summary

Jared Verse of the Los Angeles Rams blocked a field goal and returned it 76 yards for a touchdown—the first of his career—to cut the Falcons' lead to 24-17.
Verse reached a top speed of 20.21 mph, a record for defenders over 260 pounds since 2016.
Despite the play, the Rams lost 27-24 and fell to 11-5.
Verse has been named to the Pro Bowl for the second consecutive year.

1 / 2