In a strategic offseason move aimed at reinforcing their defensive prowess, the Cleveland Browns have managed to retain key defensive linemen Za'Darius Smith, Shelby Harris, and Maurice Hurst. The effort underscores the team’s commitment to building an elite defensive line, capable of taking on the NFL's best offenses.
The Browns took a significant step forward in this mission by selecting Michael Hall Jr. with the 54th overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft. Hall, an Ohio State standout and Cleveland native, has already drawn high praise from teammates and coaches alike.
During his time with the Buckeyes, Hall notched 6.0 sacks, including 1.5 in his final collegiate year. His performance has led to comparisons with some of the sport's greats, including Los Angeles Rams' defensive virtuoso, Aaron Donald. Such comparisons, while bold, come with substantial backing from those within the Browns' organization.
Za'Darius Smith did not shy away from lofty comparisons. "He is different. He reminds me of Aaron Donald a little bit," Smith remarked. "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."
Smith's endorsement stems from observing Hall's work ethic and eagerness to improve. The rookie's commitment to learning and development has been evident from day one, further fueling the excitement surrounding his potential.
"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.
Hall's own reflections on his transition to the NFL echo this sentiment. "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 said.
The Browns' defense under Jim Schwartz has already proven to be among the best in the league. With the addition of seasoned veterans and promising young talent, the unit looks poised to reach new heights. The offseason acquisitions of Quinton Jefferson and seventh-round pick Jowon Briggs further add depth and versatility to a defensive front already bolstered by the signings of Dalvin Tomlinson and 2023 third-rounder Siaki Ika.
The task ahead is clear. The Browns, who finished the regular season with an impressive 11-6 record, were eliminated in the wild card round by the Texans last season. Expectations are high as they aim to surpass that benchmark in the upcoming season. Their preseason opener against the Packers will offer the first glimpse of the revamped defensive unit in action.
With a solid core of retained talent, strategic new additions, and the promising emergence of Michael Hall Jr., the Cleveland Browns have set the stage for a formidable defense. As they gear up for another run at the postseason, fans and analysts alike will be watching keenly to see if this carefully crafted unit can deliver on its immense potential.