Joe Haden released by the Cleveland Browns: Instant Reaction
Joe Haden, once considered to be an elite shutdown corner, has been released by the Cleveland Browns. In a pass happy, needy cornerback league, he should not be on the open market for very long.
According to Ian Rappaport via Twitter, the Cleveland Browns have released their two time Pro Bowl corner back, Joe Haden. It was reported yesterday that Haden was on the trade block.
Bursting onto the scene in 2010 with six interceptions, Haden has been a ball-hawk throughout his career. Although the Browns preferred to deal Haden, his five year, $68 million contract was a hindrance on receiving compensation back. While he has a knack for finding the football, his pass deflection stats have gone down over the last couple years.
Haden, still only 28, will have teams placing waiver claims, regardless of his mega deal. Unfortunately for Joe, the Browns seem to be revamping their organization from the ground up, with an effort to get younger.
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The next 48 hours will be fascinating in the NFL, with rosters being cut from 90 to 53 players, so Haden should be acquired in the scuffle soon. The majority of NFL teams should be vying to acquire Haden on the open market.
Haden still showed last season that he could jump routes and intercept passes, as evidenced by his three interceptions. The Browns decided to move on from Haden due to the contract that he was tied to, but with above average talent still, someone may take a chance on that contract.
Some of the teams that should think about claiming him are the Dallas Cowboys, Philadelphia Eagles, Pittsburgh Steelers, Oakland Raiders, and Indianapolis Colts. These teams seem to be extremely cornerback needy, and Haden is a definite upgrade.
I would expect him claimed before teams have to make their cut downs on Saturday.