CLEVELAND — The Cleveland Browns have announced that rookie defensive tackle Mike Hall Jr. has been placed on injured reserve, which will sideline him for at least four games due to a knee injury he incurred during an indoor practice drill earlier this week.
In addition to Hall’s situation, tackle Jedrick Wills Jr. has been downgraded to out for Sunday’s matchup against the New Orleans Saints because of a knee injury. This decision follows Wills’ recent remarks where he indicated he made a “business decision” to sit out a previous game against Baltimore, stating that his surgically repaired knee wasn’t in optimal condition. Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski later commented that Wills’ wording was not the best choice in communicating his reasons for not participating.
Wills will be replaced in the starting lineup by Dawand Jones. Although Wills was listed on the team’s injury report this week as a “full” participant, he will not be able to contribute in Sunday’s game.
Hall’s injury occurred during Thursday’s practice as the Browns (2-7) emerged from their bye week, preparing for their game at the Superdome. Stefanski did not disclose whether Hall will require surgery for his injury.
It’s been an uphill battle for Hall during his rookie season, particularly when the NFL suspended him for five games following a domestic violence incident last August. Afterward, he successfully reduced the charges to disorderly conduct.
The Browns picked Hall in the second round of this year’s draft, and there were expectations for him to gain more playing time throughout the remainder of the season. Just prior to his injury, defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz had mentioned that the plan was to utilize Hall for more snaps at end position.
To address the roster changes, the team has also promoted wide receiver Kadarius Toney from the practice squad and signed defensive tackle Sam Kamara and defensive end Elerson Smith to the active roster. The Browns are hoping these adjustments will help them as they continue through the season.