As the Cleveland Browns prepare for a pivotal Week 4 contest against the Detroit Lions, the team released its latest injury report, outlining the status of two key players. Head coach Kevin Stefanski addressed the progress of defensive tackle Mike Hall Jr. and right tackle Jack Conklin, offering both optimism and caution as the Browns evaluate their options.
Mike Hall Jr. Still Recovering
Defensive tackle Mike Hall Jr. will not be active this weekend, extending his absence to a fourth consecutive game. Hall has been sidelined since suffering a knee injury in Week 18 of the 2024 season, and while he has shown steady progress, the Browns are taking a careful approach to his return.
Hall did not take part in Wednesday’s practice session, though he managed limited work on Thursday. Stefanski explained that the coaching staff values having him around the team even in a reduced role, noting that his presence on the field—albeit in a limited capacity—represents an important step forward in his rehabilitation process.
“Mike is working extremely hard, and he’s getting closer every week,” Stefanski said. “Having him out there, even in a limited way, is good for him and good for the team.”
The Browns’ defensive front has been tested without Hall, who was expected to take on a larger role this season. His ability to clog the middle and pressure opposing quarterbacks is something the unit has missed, though backups have stepped up to help fill the void. Still, his eventual return will provide much-needed depth as Cleveland faces a challenging stretch of the schedule.
Jack Conklin’s Status Up in the Air
Meanwhile, right tackle Jack Conklin’s availability for Sunday remains uncertain. Conklin is battling an elbow injury that he sustained during practice prior to Week 2. The setback forced him to miss both Week 2 and Week 3, and he has been slowly ramping up his workload since then.
Conklin was limited in practice both Wednesday and Thursday, with Stefanski describing his progress as encouraging but not yet complete. “He’s progressing and improving each day,” the head coach noted. The team will continue to monitor his status leading up to kickoff before making a final decision.
If Conklin is unable to suit up, the Browns will need to adjust their offensive line rotation against a Lions defense that has proven disruptive through the first three weeks. His absence would be significant, as the veteran lineman brings experience and stability to the right side of the line.
Looking Ahead
The Browns enter Week 4 looking to maintain momentum, but injuries remain a central storyline. With Hall ruled out and Conklin questionable, Cleveland may have to lean on its depth once again. Stefanski emphasized that while injuries are part of the game, the team’s focus is on keeping players healthy for the long haul while still competing at a high level each week.
