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Browns’ best news on cutdown day was a key injured player returning on defense ahead of opener against Bengals and Joe Burrow

Originally posted on A to Z Sports | By Brandon Little | Last updated Aug 26, 2025 9:52 PM ET

The Cleveland Browns have finalized their initial 53-man roster as they prepare for the 2025 season. Cleveland made multiple roster moves on Tuesday to reach the limit.

Quarterback Deshaun Watson was placed on the reserve/physically unable to perform (PUP) list. He could potentially return after four weeks, or anytime later in the season.

The best news of the day for Cleveland was the return of a player recovering from a serious injury. Injury updates haven’t been favorable throughout training camp, but this one is a welcome change.

Browns activate former Ohio State DT Mike Hall Jr.

Hall, a second-round pick last season, showed promise despite inconsistent availability as a rookie. The former Buckeye suffered a knee injury in the regular-season finale against the Baltimore Ravens and had been on the PUP list. After passing his physical, he was moved to the active roster on Tuesday.

Browns DT Mike Hall passed his physical and was added to the 53-man roster.
— Daniel Oyefusi (@DanielOyefusi) August 26, 2025

As a rookie, Hall recorded 14 tackles, one sack, and six quarterback hits in eight games. The 6-foot-3, 300-pound defender is viewed as a pass-rush specialist on the interior and could provide a big boost for Cleveland on passing downs. The Browns added rookie Mason Graham and free-agent signing Maliek Collins this offseason, both expected starters, but Hall is still projected to play a significant role thanks to his ability to disrupt the pocket.

While Watson remains on the PUP list for now, it’s worth watching if and when he’s activated this season. Based on the workout videos he’s posted recently, I’d lean toward that happening, and Tuesday’s roster moves only strengthen that outlook. For now, the Browns’ quarterback room features Joe Flacco, Dillon Gabriel, and Shedeur Sanders.

With cutdowns complete, Cleveland could still make additional roster moves in the coming days. For now, the headline is that Hall is back and ready to return to the field.

This article first appeared on A to Z Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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