In a move to solidify an already stout defense, the Cleveland Browns' front office made significant strides during the offseason, securing the talents of key defensive linemen Za’Darius Smith, Shelby Harris, and Maurice Hurst. Their commitment to fortifying their defense took an even bigger leap forward with the selection of Michael Hall Jr. in the 2024 NFL Draft, chosen 54th overall.
Hall, a product of Ohio State and a Cleveland native, is expected to bolster a defensive line already considered one of the best in the league. During his tenure with the Buckeyes, Hall rung up 6.0 sacks, with 1.5 in his final year alone. His potential has already drawn comparisons to none other than Aaron Donald, who concluded his stellar career with 111.0 sacks, 24 forced fumbles, and seven fumble recoveries.
"He is different. He reminds me of Aaron Donald a little bit," remarked veteran lineman Za'Darius Smith. "Hopefully he doesn'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."
Smith's enthusiasm is palpable as he envisions a time when Hall can join him and other defensive stalwarts on the field simultaneously. "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. 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," Smith added.
The Browns’ defense, under the tutelage of defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz, excelled last season, becoming one of the best units in the NFL. This season, the Browns have added even more depth and versatility to their defensive front, acquiring Quinton Jefferson and seventh-round draft pick Jowon Briggs. They also brought in Dalvin Tomlinson and Siaki Ika, a 2023 third-round selection, to further bolster their line.
For Hall, the transition into the NFL has been seamless. "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," he noted.
The Browns are set to open their preseason at home against the Packers, offering the first glimpse of how these offseason moves will play out on the field. Coming off an 11-6 regular-season record and an elimination in the wild card round against the Texans last season, the Browns are clearly determined to push past last year's limitations.
With the infusion of talent and the retention of key players, expectations for the Browns’ defense are sky-high. As Hall aims to prove his doubters wrong, the synergy between seasoned veterans and promising newcomers could be the recipe for sustained success in Cleveland.
Only time will tell if Hall can live up to the lofty comparisons to Aaron Donald, but early indicators, including the high praise from his teammates, suggest that he has the potential to be a game-changer. For the Browns faithful, the anticipation is palpable as they look forward to another exciting season of football.