{
  "id": 5156081,
  "title": "Mike Hall Jr. back on field, finding new role on Browns defense",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/02/mike-hall-jr-back-on-field-finding-new-role-on-browns-defense",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-09-02T19:32:25.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Yahoo Sports",
    "slug": "yahoo-sports",
    "url": "https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/mike-hall-jr-back-field-193225385.html"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Berea – Former Ohio State University defensive tackle Mike Hall Jr. has returned to regularly practicing outside for the Cleveland Browns. This development comes at a crucial time for the team, as they look to bolster their defensive line with fresh talent. Hall, a Streetsboro High School product, missed 10 days of training camp after taking a late hit from running back Quinshon Judkins during a non-padded practice on August 1. He returned to the field on August 18, two days before the Browns' joint practice with the Buffalo Bills.\n\nHall made his preseason debut against the Buffalo Bills at defensive end, a position he hadn't played since college. While he mentioned that he played a little bit of end during his college days, Hall expressed his willingness to adapt to his new role, stating, \"Yeah, I played a little bit of end in college, so it's something new. But do whatever it takes to be out there for the team and do whatever for my brothers.\"\n\nThe incident with Judkins that led to Hall's 10-day absence prompted questions from fans and media alike. During his extended absence, Hall had initially returned to practice but did not participate in further sessions until the following day. He declined to delve into the specifics of his absence, explaining that he was merely dealing with minor tweaks and receiving guidance from the training staff.\n\nDespite the setback, Hall remains focused on his role within the Browns' defense. With the team acknowledging their need for defensive end depth, Hall's versatility at both ends of the defensive line presents an appealing opportunity for the coaching staff. Assistant general manager and Vice President of Football Operations Catherine Hickman revealed that the coaching staff is keen on exploring the various ways Hall can contribute to the team's success, highlighting the importance of versatility in navigating potential injuries and unforeseen circumstances throughout the season.\n\nCoach Todd Monken, who previously believed Hall was more effective playing from the interior, now acknowledges the disruptive impact Hall has demonstrated when working outside. Monken praised Hall's competitive spirit and enthusiasm for football, noting that the Browns would do well to keep him on the field due to his disruptive nature. However, Hall's history of injuries, including a suspension for a domestic violence charge and a season-ending knee injury, underscores the challenges he has faced thus far in his NFL career.\n\nDespite these setbacks, Hall remains optimistic about his third season with the Browns. He emphasized his commitment to getting back in shape, particularly addressing lingering knee issues from the previous year. Hall expressed satisfaction with his progress and confidence that his hard work in the off-season will translate onto the field. With Hall's potential to contribute as both an interior and outside defensive tackle, the Browns hope to see him make a significant impact, especially as they aim to strengthen their defensive lineup heading into the upcoming season.",
  "summary": "Browns defensive lineman Mike Hall Jr. missed 10 days due to a hit from Quinshon Judkins. Now back, he's adjusting to a new role as well.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}