In a determined move to strengthen an already commendable defense, the Cleveland Browns' front office worked relentlessly during the offseason. Their primary aim was to retain key defensive linemen Za'Darius Smith, Shelby Harris, and Maurice Hurst. These efforts culminated in securing a solid front-line for the upcoming season, highlighting their commitment to defensive excellence.
The Browns' endeavor to bolster their defensive ranks took a significant step during the 2024 NFL Draft. With their first pick, 54th overall, they chose Michael Hall Jr., an Ohio State product and Cleveland native. Hall's collegiate career with the Buckeyes was marked by notable performances, including recording 6.0 sacks, with 1.5 in his final year. The addition of Hall to the Browns' roster speaks volumes about their strategic planning for the future.
Za'Darius Smith, a key player within the Browns' defense, has expressed his high regard for Hall’s potential. "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."
Aaron Donald's illustrious career in the NFL ended with an impressive record of 111.0 sacks, 24 forced fumbles, and seven fumble recoveries. Drawing comparisons to Donald sets a high bar for Hall, but Smith's endorsement speaks to the potential Hall brings to the Cleveland Browns. It's not just talent but also Hall’s work ethic and drive that have caught the attention of his teammates.
Hall himself is modest about his transition to the NFL, attributing his readiness to his consistent 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 shared.
Offseason Acquisitions
Beyond retaining their defensive stalwarts, the Browns made several strategic offseason acquisitions. They added depth and versatility to their defense with the signings of Quinton Jefferson and seventh-round draft pick Jowon Briggs. Further strengthening their defensive front, the Browns brought in Dalvin Tomlinson and 2023 third-round selection Siaki Ika, solidifying their defensive lineup.
Defense Under Jim Schwartz
The Browns' defense, under the guidance of defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz, was one of the most formidable in the NFL last season. Za'Darius Smith hopes to see a defensive package where the entire defensive line is 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.
Looking Ahead
The Browns concluded the last regular season with an admirable 11-6 record. However, their journey was halted in the wild card round against the Texans. This season, there is a palpable sense of optimism surrounding the team’s defensive capabilities. The Browns are slated to open their preseason at home against the Packers, and with their bolstered defense, they aim to propel themselves further into the playoffs.
The inclusion of Michael Hall Jr. and other strategic additions reflect the Browns' ambition to not just participate but to dominate on the defensive side of the ball. As Hall looks to prove his doubters wrong and contribute to the team he grew up cheering for, the Browns' defense appears poised for another stellar season under Schwartz's leadership.