Joe Haden

Joe Haden has transitioned from a successful NFL cornerback to a respected voice in sports, known for his distinguished career with the Cleveland Browns and Pittsburgh Steelers. After leading Friendly High School to a 14-0 record and a MPSSAA Class 3A State Championship in 2006, setting Maryland state records for career passing yards and touchdown passes, Joe Haden continued his standout football career at the University of Florida. As a Florida Gator, he became the first true freshman to start at cornerback on opening day in 2007, earning freshman All-American honors. He was a pivotal member of the BCS National Championship team in 2008 and was recognized as a unanimous first-team All-American and First-team All-SEC in 2009.

Beyond the field, Haden was recognized for his leadership and dedication to community initiatives, notably advocating on behalf of the ‘Spread the Word to End the Word’ campaign to discourage the pejorative use of the word ‘retarded.’ He officially announced his retirement from professional football on September 21, 2022, marking the occasion by signing a one-day contract with the Cleveland Browns to honor his integral beginnings with the franchise. Joe Haden remains a respected figure within the football community and continues to inspire through his distinguished career and commitment to social causes.