Chargers defensive end Tuli Tuipulotu has three sacks in seven games, while Browns defensive end Jared Verse has zero sacks through eight. The appealing version of that idea pairs them.

Dawg Pound Daily writer Ernesto Cova advocates acquiring the Chargers defender as a long-term piece. Verse generated 143 pressures across his two Rams seasons, tied for fifth in the NFL, and adding help beats abandoning that investment.

Tuipulotu's trade fit goes beyond sacks

Tuipulotu also has 11 quarterback hits. His 17 run stops rank third among 111 eligible edge rushers in Pro Football Focus's figures.

The run defense makes this a stronger fit than chasing a sack total alone. Cleveland could add an edge defender who affects passing downs without building his entire job around them.

The earlier case for addressing Cleveland's principal trade need centered on edge rusher. Tuipulotu offers a persuasive answer: help that can stay on the field against the run, too.

But Tuipulotu is approaching free agency without an agreed extension. Acquiring him as a long-term partner would require a contract commitment beyond the trade itself.

Adding help beside Verse

Verse has 18 tackles and six quarterback hits through eight games. Head coach Todd Monken described the adjustment in his November 2 assessment: "And I think it's a matter of adapting to our style."

Monken also praised Verse's work habits. The case for holding on to Verse can coexist with a move to strengthen the position around him.

Cleveland acquired Verse in June with three draft picks in exchange for defensive end Myles Garrett.

The fifth-year option decision comes in spring 2027 and concerns the 2028 season.

Tuipulotu fits as a partner. Turning a search for help into another exit at defensive end would leave Cleveland chasing the same need.

Image: AI-generated image.