Haden Named NFL Defensive Rookie of the Month

As the Florida secondary regressed near the end of the season, their key loss before the 2010 season was tearing up the NFL. Joe Haden became the first Cleveland Browns rookie in more than 50 years to intercept a pass in three consecutive games, leading to the cornerback being named the NFL’s Defensive Rookie of the Month for November.

Besides the three interceptions, Joe Haden also recorded 15 tackles, seven pass breakups and one special teams tackle. The last Browns rookie to record an interception in three straight games was Florida graduate Bernie Parrish in 1959.

Haden was the No. 7 pick in the 2010 NFL Draft to the Browns, despite having two top cornerbacks already on the roster. Eric Wright was a 2007 draft pick of the Browns and recorded eight interceptions in his first three seasons. His reputation as one of the top cornerbacks in the league was growing.

The Browns also traded for Sheldon Brown in the offseason, making it seem like their cornerback positions were already full. However, Brown and Wright have each dealt with some nagging injuries this season, allowing Haden to see the field.

Haden’s career at Florida started off with a bang, as he became the first freshman in school history to start at cornerback on opening day. He recorded eight interceptions in his career, with four coming in his junior season before leaving for the NFL. He started every game in his three years at Florida.