Heading in, the Browns had about a 50-50 chance of landing Hall, who was the No. 5 player at his position according to draft analyst Dane Brugler of The Athletic, and the eighth one selected. Two of the teams that tried to trade up to No. 54 later admitted they were climbing up for Hall, which made the Browns even more grateful they stayed put.

New Browns draft picks Mike Hall Jr. and Zak Zinter have already developed a connection despite past connection in Ohio State-Michigan rivalry.

- Michigan team members look over offensive lineman Zak Zinter (65) during the second half of an NCAA college football game against Ohio State, Nov. 25, 2023, in Ann Arbor, Mich. Browns draft picks Michael Hall Jr.