Los Angeles Rams linebacker Jared Verse recently recounted a grueling offseason workout with retired Rams legend Aaron Donald, describing the experience as “psychotic” and leaving him “dead tired.” Verse’s candid remarks came during a press conference at Rams training camp on Wednesday, where he expressed that he would prefer daily training camp practices over another session with Donald.
A Workout from Hell: Verse’s Account
Verse detailed the intense regimen he endured at Donald’s home in June, an experience he initially approached thinking it would be a casual hour-long session. Instead, he was met with a relentless circuit designed by the future Hall of Famer.
The Cardio Gauntlet
The workout began with a rigorous cardio circuit. Verse explained that it involved four different exercises—VersaClimber, bike, lunges, and core work—each completed for four rounds. After approximately 45 minutes of this initial phase, which left him already exhausted, Donald posed the question, “Alright, you ready for the real workout?”
The Arm Annihilation
Verse then revealed the true intensity of the session: a transition to the weight room for an hour and a half dedicated entirely to arm workouts. This portion consisted of eight different circuits, with four sets for each exercise. The sheer difficulty of this part of the workout led Verse to jokingly tell Donald’s wife, who was present and laughing, to “call the police.” He even attempted to fabricate an excuse about his mother needing him at home, only for Donald to offer to send an assistant with his keys, ensuring Verse could not leave.
Lasting Impact and Mentorship
Despite the extreme physical demands, Verse acknowledged the profound impact the workout had on his mindset. He described the experience as both humbling and instructive, providing him with a clear understanding of the dedication required to achieve greatness at an elite NFL level. Donald”s consistent message throughout the session was to “think of the fourth quarter,” emphasizing that true performance shines when others are fatigued.
Verse, who was the NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year in 2024, stated that Donald’s intense approach has fundamentally altered his own workout routine, making him push himself harder. This mentorship, though physically brutal, is seen as invaluable as Verse aims to further elevate his game and contribute significantly to the Rams’ defense in the upcoming season. Verse admitted he didn’t work out for a day and a half after the session because he “couldn’t move [his] body.”
