In a strategic move to enhance their defensive prowess, the Cleveland Browns' front office made significant efforts during the offseason to retain key linemen Za'Darius Smith, Shelby Harris, and Maurice Hurst. These veteran players form the core of a defense that aims to intimidate opponents in the upcoming NFL season.
Taking their commitment to bolstering the defense a step further, the Browns made a noteworthy selection in the 2024 NFL Draft by choosing Michael Hall Jr. with the 54th overall pick. Hall, a standout product of Ohio State and a native of Cleveland, is already drawing high praise from teammates and analysts alike.
Drawing Comparisons to a Legend
Za'Darius Smith noted Hall's potential by comparing him to the legendary defensive tackle Aaron Donald, an endorsement that speaks volumes. "He is different. He reminds me of Aaron Donald a little bit," said 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."
Donald, who ended his illustrious career with 111.0 sacks, 24 forced fumbles, and seven fumble recoveries, set a high bar for defensive linemen. The Browns hope Hall can carve out a similarly dominant career.
Smith further articulated the excitement within the team about Hall's addition. "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."
A Local Star with Lofty Goals
Hall's journey to the NFL is especially compelling given his Cleveland roots. Growing up in the area and playing for Ohio State, Hall's selection by the Browns is a homecoming of sorts. He carries a strong work ethic, honed during his college years where he recorded 6.0 sacks, 1.5 of which came in his final year with the Buckeyes.
"My work ethic from before has been great. I just turned it up a notch plus-2," Hall remarked. "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."
A Unified Defensive Front
The Browns are not solely banking on Hall to strengthen their defensive line. They made several strategic acquisitions during the offseason, including Quinton Jefferson and seventh-round draft pick Jowon Briggs, to add depth and versatility. They also signed Dalvin Tomlinson and 2023 third-round selection Siaki Ika, each expected to play integral roles in fortifying the defensive front.
Smith expressed optimism about the potential of a powerful defensive package. "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."
Looking Towards the Season Ahead
Last season, the Browns' defense was one of the best in the league under the guidance of defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz. The team closed the regular season with an impressive 11-6 record, but saw their campaign end in disappointment, exiting in the wild card round against the Texans. As they prepare to open their preseason at home against the Packers, the Browns aim to build on last season's successes and rectify their shortcomings.
The integration of talented newcomers like Hall and key offseason acquisitions positions the Browns as a formidable defensive unit. With seasoned veterans providing mentorship and a coordinated effort under Schwartz's leadership, Cleveland's defense aims to be a dominant force, potentially paving the way for a deep postseason run.