Overview
- A late, non‑padded hit by running back Quinshon Judkins on Aug. 1 knocked Mike Hall Jr. to the ground and preceded more than two weeks of missed practices as he managed undisclosed tweaks.
- Coach Todd Monken met privately with Judkins, who acknowledged the play was a mistake, and the team has framed the episode as a teachable moment about controlling emotions in practice.
- Hall returned to practice on Aug. 18 and started the preseason game against the Bills at defensive end, where he recorded a sack and earned a place in Cleveland’s defensive‑line rotation.
- The Browns are testing Hall outside in response to earlier injuries to Alex Wright and Kalia Davis because his inside‑to‑edge versatility helps cover thin depth on the line.
- Hall’s availability remains a concern given a 2024 suspension and prior knee injuries, and the Browns will watch his durability closely as they finalize the Week 1 roster.