In an aggressive push to solidify what was already a formidable defense, the Cleveland Browns' front office prioritized retaining key defensive linemen Za'Darius Smith, Shelby Harris, and Maurice Hurst in the offseason. These efforts have laid a solid foundation for the upcoming season, with high expectations for a defensive unit that ranked among the NFL's best last year under the guidance of defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz.
Continuing their commitment to strengthening the defensive line, the Browns made a significant offseason move by selecting Michael Hall Jr. as their first pick in the 2024 NFL Draft. Chosen 54th overall, Hall's selection represents more than just a homecoming for the Cleveland native and Ohio State product—it marks the arrival of a promising talent poised to make an immediate impact.
During his collegiate career with the Buckeyes, Hall recorded 6.0 sacks, with 1.5 of those coming in his final year. His performance on the field has drawn early comparisons to NFL legend Aaron Donald, who concluded his career with an impressive 111.0 sacks, 24 forced fumbles, and seven fumble recoveries.
"He is different. He reminds me of Aaron Donald a little bit," remarked Smith. "Hopefully he don't see this and get a big head. He just wants to learn. He is asking a lot of questions. If you did see during 1-on-1s, he was winning each and every rep. To have a young guy like that that just wants to continue to get better and better each and every day is big by a defensive lineman and we are happy to have him."
Hall’s enthusiasm for joining the Browns is matched by a palpable hunger to prove his doubters wrong. This determination has not gone unnoticed by his more experienced teammates. Smith expressed his excitement at the prospect of a defensive package that could see Hall lining up alongside himself, Myles Garrett, Maurice Hurst, and other standout defensive linemen.
"Being with him, man, hopefully there is a package that Jim Schwartz puts in for us where all of us are in at the same time. [Hall is a] young guy, just wants to learn. He wants to be great. He is from here. He was born and raised in Cleveland so for him to be a Brown is big, too,” Smith added. “I think last week he told me 'I got a lot of doubters and I am going to prove a lot of guys wrong.' That was big to hear that from him as a young guy."
Michael Hall Jr. himself exudes confidence combined with a relentless work ethic. "There hasn't really been a toughest adjustment. My work ethic from before has been great. I just turned it up a notch plus-2. Staying after and getting extra work with those guys, Myles [Garrett] or Za'Darius and all them or Mo Hurst. Just being blessed to be out there with all of them," Hall explained.
The Browns' defensive line has been further bolstered by the addition of veterans like Quinton Jefferson and seventh-round draft pick Jowon Briggs, adding both depth and versatility. The signings of Dalvin Tomlinson and 2023 third-round selection Siaki Ika have fortified the defensive front, aiming to build on the momentum from last season when the Browns finished strong with an 11-6 record.
The Browns are set to kick off their preseason at home against the Green Bay Packers, a matchup that will provide an early glimpse into the revamped defensive lineup. Despite being eliminated in the wild card round by the Houston Texans last season, the team’s focused offseason efforts signal a robust return, with an eye on deeper postseason aspirations.
As the preseason unfolds, all eyes will be on Michael Hall Jr. and his integration into a defensive squad brimming with talent and potential. For a team that possesses a synergistic blend of seasoned veterans and promising newcomers, the outlook is promising. With Schwartz’s tactical acumen and a strengthened roster, the Cleveland Browns are ready to showcase a defense that could very well be the linchpin of their success in the forthcoming NFL season.