Browns’ Mike Hall Jr. suspended five games without pay for violating NFL’s…read more.
The Cleveland Browns may see their 2024 second-round draft pick, defensive tackle Mike Hall Jr. out of Ohio State, back on the field sooner than anticipated following a domestic dispute in August. Hall was placed on the NFL Commissioner’s exempt list on August 27, 2024, and subsequently suspended for five games without pay for violating the league’s personal conduct policy, according to The Washington Post. His suspension, however, is already partially served, with the first four games counting towards the ban while Hall was on the exempt list.
This means Hall could potentially return for Cleveland’s Week 6 matchup against the Philadelphia Eagles on October 13, 2024. While on the exempt list, Hall was allowed to be present at the Browns’ facility but was prohibited from participating in practices or games.
The incident that led to Hall’s suspension occurred in August, culminating in his arrest on domestic violence charges, where he was initially accused of knowingly causing or attempting to cause physical harm, a first-degree misdemeanor in Ohio. However, Hall later pleaded no contest to a reduced charge of disorderly conduct, a fourth-degree misdemeanor, during his court appearance on September 19, 2024, in Avon Lake Municipal Court, as reported by The Akron Beacon Journal. His punishment included a $250 fine, a two-year probation period, and a suspended 30-day jail sentence.
Despite the off-field issues, the Browns are struggling on the field. They have started the 2024 season with a 1-3 record, with their lone win coming in Week 2 against the Jacksonville Jaguars, a narrow 18-13 victory. Hall’s potential return could offer some much-needed reinforcement to Cleveland’s defense as they look to turn around their early-season struggles.
Hall’s situation underscores the complexities surrounding the NFL’s personal conduct policy and how teams navigate player discipline. The Browns, already dealing with a disappointing start, are hopeful Hall can get back on track and contribute on the field after serving his suspension. The team will be looking for any spark to improve their record as they aim to remain competitive in the 2024 season.
With the legal proceedings behind him, Hall’s focus will now shift to football and proving himself on the field once reinstated, while the Browns will weigh how his return impacts their defensive front.
