All News & Analysis

Joe Haden signs with the Steelers

ORCHARD PARK, NY - DECEMBER 18: Joe Haden #23 of the Cleveland Browns warms up before the start of NFL game action against the Buffalo Bills at New Era Field on December 18, 2016 in Orchard Park, New York. (Photo by Tom Szczerbowski/Getty Images)

  • ESPN’s Adam Schefter has reported that the Pittsburgh Steelers are expected free-agent cornerback Joe Haden to a three-year, $27 million deal, including $7 million this year.
  • Haden was released from the Cleveland Browns earlier this morning, after a disappointing year with the team. In 2016, Haden gave up a league-high six touchdowns, and allowed 1.48 yards per coverage snap, the league’s 12th-highest mark among cornerbacks. He ended the year ranked 88th of 110 qualifying cornerbacks with a PFF overall grade of 46.0.
  • Haden was once thought of as one of the best cover cornerbacks in the game. The highlight of his career came in his rookie year, where he allowed a passer rating of just 51.1 on throws into his primary coverage, and ranked third among the league’s cornerbacks with a PFF coverage grade of 87.5.
  • The Steelers scheme could lead to a bounce back year for Haden. In 2016, The Pittsburgh Steelers played 75.2 percent of their snaps in zone coverage, the second most among teams in the league. Last season, Haden was targeted 30 times in zone coverage, allowed 15 receptions, logged all three of his interceptions, and allowed a passer rating of just 63.5, the 13th best mark among 73 corners with at least 25 targets in zone coverage.

All Featured Tools

Subscriptions

Unlock the 2023 Fantasy Draft Kit, with League Sync, Live Draft Assistant, PFF Grades & Data Platform that powers all 32 Pro Teams

$31 Draft Kit Fee + $8.99/mo
OR
$89.88/yr + FREE Draft Kit