In a determined bid to strengthen their already notable defense, the Cleveland Browns front office undertook significant measures during the offseason to retain key defensive linemen Za'Darius Smith, Shelby Harris, and Maurice Hurst. These efforts reflect the team’s focus on reinforcing their defensive prowess, a strategy that took a vital leap forward with the selection of Michael Hall Jr. in the 2024 NFL Draft.
Selected as the 54th overall pick, Hall’s addition to the Browns' roster marks a homecoming of sorts. The Cleveland native and Ohio State product enters the NFL with a robust collegiate resume, having recorded 6.0 sacks, including 1.5 in his final year with the Buckeyes.
In the eyes of Za'Darius Smith, Hall's potential is reminiscent of one of the game’s greatest defensive players, Aaron Donald. "He is different. He reminds me of Aaron Donald a little bit," Smith said. "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."
Donald, whose illustrious career concluded with 111.0 sacks, 24 forced fumbles, and seven fumble recoveries, set a benchmark for defensive excellence. Smith’s comparison elevates the expectations surrounding Hall, yet it is clear the young defensive lineman is eager to live up to such lofty standards. "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," added Smith.
Hall himself reflects a mentality grounded in hard work and resilience. When asked about his transition to the NFL, he remarked, "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." This eagerness to learn and grow has already endeared him to his veteran teammates.
The Browns’ defense, already one of the NFL's best last season under the direction of defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz, aims to become even more formidable. Offseason acquisitions like Quinton Jefferson and seventh-round draft pick Jowon Briggs were strategic moves to add depth and versatility. Additionally, the signings of Dalvin Tomlinson and 2023 third-round selection Siaki Ika further fortify the defensive front, demonstrating the Browns' commitment to assembling a dominant unit.
Smith expressed his hope for a cohesive strategy that would maximize the talent on the roster. "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."
The Browns closed last season with an impressive 11-6 record but faced an early exit in the wild card round against the Texans. As the team prepares to open their preseason at home against the Packers, the focus is on leveraging their defensive strengths to achieve greater postseason success. Hall's addition symbolizes both a nod to the Browns’ future and a continuation of their tradition of excellence.
For Hall, the drive to succeed is both personal and professional. "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 shared, highlighting the rookie's determination.
As the Browns embark on this new season, the combination of seasoned leadership and fresh talent has generated a sense of optimism. Hall’s integration into the squad could be a pivotal chapter in what the Browns hope will be a historic campaign.