In a strategic move tailored to enhance an already formidable defense, the Cleveland Browns’ front office has committed to retaining some of their key defensive linemen during the offseason. This concerted effort ensured that Za'Darius Smith, Shelby Harris, and Maurice Hurst, pivotal figures in their defensive lineup, remained with the team.
Taking their ambitions a notch higher, the Browns selected Michael Hall Jr. from Ohio State with the 54th overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft. Hall, a Cleveland native, has been touted as a promising talent for the future. His collegiate career with the Buckeyes saw him recording 6.0 sacks, 1.5 of which came in his final year. This impressive performance caught the attention of many, including Za'Darius Smith, who made an intriguing comparison, saying, "He is different. He reminds me of Aaron Donald a little bit."
Aaron Donald, who ended his remarkable career with 111.0 sacks, 24 forced fumbles, and seven fumble recoveries, represents a lofty benchmark for any defensive lineman. Smith’s comparison hints at the high expectations surrounding Hall and his potential impact on the Browns’ defense. "Hopefully he don't see this and get a big head," Smith joked. "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."
Michael Hall Jr. himself expressed immense gratitude and excitement for the opportunity. "There hasn't really been a toughest adjustment,” Hall remarked. “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.”
The Browns' commitment to strengthening their defense is further evidenced by their additional offseason acquisitions. Quinton Jefferson and seventh-round draft pick Jowon Briggs were brought on board to provide depth and versatility. Moreover, the signings of Dalvin Tomlinson and 2023 third-round selection Siaki Ika further fortified their defensive front, signaling the franchise’s intent on building a unit capable of contending with the NFL’s best.
Looking back at the previous season under defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz, the Browns' defense emerged as one of the most formidable units in the league. The team concluded the regular season with an impressive 11-6 record, although their campaign was cut short by a wild card round exit against the Texans. However, the offseason moves reflect a determination to build on their strengths and address any shortcomings.
As the preseason opener against the Packers approaches, all eyes will be on how the revamped defense performs. Smith’s hopes for a special package under Schwartz that includes all key linemen on the field simultaneously will be particularly intriguing to watch. "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,” Smith said, referring to Hall. “[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."
The Browns' fortified defense, driven by the experience of seasoned players like Smith and the youthful vigor of rising talents like Hall, sets the stage for what could be an exciting season. The blend of established veterans and aspiring newcomers creates an atmosphere ripe for defensive dominance. If the Browns manage to translate their offseason efforts into on-field success, their defense might just become the benchmark for the NFL in the upcoming season.