Rams rookie defensive end Jared Verse said a demanding workout session with Aaron Donald was torturous and joked about calling the police.
The encounter highlights the intense physical standards expected of newcomers in the Rams' defensive rotation. By pairing a veteran like Donald with a rookie, the team aims to accelerate the development of young talent through high-pressure environments.
The session took place July 25, 2025 [1], at the Rams training facility in Thousand Oaks, California. Reports said Donald led the workout with a mix of intense physical demands and humor, testing Verse's resilience and toughness as he integrated into the team's defensive scheme.
Verse said the intensity of the workout was nearly overwhelming. He characterized the process as a difficult introduction to the professional standards maintained by Donald, one of the most decorated players in the league.
Head coach Sean McVay said controlled aggression is important for Verse during his transition to the NFL. The goal of these interactions is to ensure that rookies can maintain their intensity while remaining disciplined within the broader defensive strategy.
The workout served as both a physical test and a cultural initiation. By pushing Verse to his limits, Donald provided a direct example of the work ethic required to succeed at the highest level of the sport—a standard that McVay expects from his entire defensive front.
“Jared Verse described a demanding workout session with Aaron Donald as torturous.”
This interaction underscores the mentorship dynamic within the Rams' defense, where veteran leadership is used to instill a culture of extreme physical preparation. By subjecting rookies to 'torturous' workouts, the organization ensures that young players are mentally and physically conditioned for the rigors of the NFL season before they face game-day opposition.
