Head coach Kevin Stefanski of the Cleveland Browns
The Cleveland Browns are off to a disappointing start this season, managing only one win through the first four weeks. To make matters worse, one of their highly touted young players, defensive tackle Mike Hall Jr., has yet to make an impact on the field.
The Browns selected Hall in the second round of the 2024 NFL Draft out of Ohio State, and he impressed during training camp. However, Hall’s season was derailed when an off-the-field incident resulted in a domestic violence arrest, leading to him being placed on the commissioner-exempt list at the end of August.
According to Mary Kay Cabot of Cleveland.com, Hall has now been suspended for five games under the NFL’s Personal Conduct Policy. The suspension, announced on October 1, counts the first four games of the season since Hall was already on the exempt list. As a result, he will only miss one more game, a Week 5 matchup against Washington, and will be eligible for reinstatement on October 7.
#Browns rookie DT Mike Hall suspended 5 games under the #NFL's Personal Conduct Policy: https://t.co/Hm2A4Y5dsL
— Mary Kay Cabot (@MaryKayCabot) October 1, 2024
The Browns are hoping Hall can return to provide a spark to their struggling defense. Last season, Cleveland’s defense was a force, known for stopping the run and making game-changing plays. However, this year, the unit has not lived up to expectations, looking older and less dynamic.
With an aging roster and a defense lacking the same intensity as last season, the Browns could certainly use an infusion of youth. Hall’s presence on the defensive line could be just what they need to reignite the defense, which has faltered in key moments this season.
Cleveland’s struggles are not confined to the defense, though. The team has been out of sync on both sides of the ball, and if they don’t turn things around soon, they risk missing the playoffs once again. Hall’s return may provide a boost, but the Browns will need more than just one player to salvage their season.
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