Ohio State’s ‘Baby Aaron Donald’ joins the 2024 NFL Draft in Buckeyes’ first critical decision

The first Ohio State football NFL Draft decision has been made, and it will cost the Buckeyes one piece of their defensive line in 2024.

Mike Hall Jr. stated on social media that he will enter the draft. Underclassmen can apply for early entrance until January 15.

“It is time to start the next chapter of my life and make the one dream that never died in me come true,” Hall said in his Facebook post.

The third-year defensive tackle, dubbed “Baby Aaron Donald” by his colleagues, has been a regular starter for the previous two seasons. As part of a productive three-man rotation with Tyleik Williams and Ty Hamilton, the Streetsboro native recorded 24 tackles, 1.5 sacks, and two hurries this season.

Ohio State is waiting to hear whether those veterans, along with defensive ends J.T. Tuimoloau and Jack Sawyer, decide to leave for the NFL.

Hall barely played as a true freshman until breaking out in his sophomore season with a good showing against Notre Dame on opening night. His potential dominance was on display in a midseason game against Michigan State, as he recorded 2.5 sacks on eight snaps.

Despite playing only the 12th most snaps this season, his 29 pressures ranks third on the defense.

His interior penetration will be difficult to replicate, making him a desirable NFL prospect.