Joe Haden Has A Special Message For Browns Fans

Former Cleveland Browns cornerback Joe Haden seems to be enjoying retirement.

After a splendid career in both northeast Ohio and Pittsburgh, Haden still sticks around the game.

It’s clear Haden enjoyed his time in Cleveland and still has love for fans in the area.

On Saturday, he left a special message via the Browns Twitter account.

He stated he “was glad he could retire a Brown” and that he’d be in attendance for the Monday night game against Cincinnati.

We’ll see you at @FEStadium! #CINvsCLE pic.twitter.com/XflTQX4xoA

— Cleveland Browns (@Browns) October 29, 2022

A Spark in the Dark

Haden never experienced a winning season in Cleveland.

That never stopped him from playing hard and performing well.

That goes a long way in terms of why folks still like him now.

He played 90 total games with the Browns, intercepting 19 passes and getting one pick-six.

He also made over 300 tackles as a Brown, forcing and recovering four fumbles.

Happy retirement to former #Browns cornerback Joe Haden

In his 158 career games Haden had forced more than twice as many turnovers (36) than he gave up TDs (15)

What a career for number 23

pic.twitter.com/twJoYXId5Q

— Mac🦬 (@tha_buffalo) September 21, 2022

There have been some dark years for Cleveland football with Haden being a member for many of those teams.

Guys that stuck around and played hard regardless, like him and Joe Thomas, will always be appreciated.

Joe Haden, appreciating playing in Cleveland:

' …the understanding of that effort that you give. Even if you aren’t winning, you are giving your all, you are trying your best, you are being a professional and you are being a professional about your job.

— Tony Grossi (@TonyGrossi) October 29, 2022

Love for NEO from Joe

For obvious rivalry reasons, Browns fans weren’t thrilled to see Haden end his career playing with the Steelers.

But, as we’ve talked about plenty of times, Joe still voices his admiration for Cleveland.

That continues even now as he prioritized retiring as a Brown and not with another team.

His appreciation for the city extends outside of just the fact he lived in the area for a long time.

He told reporters earlier this week the city “embraced” him when the Browns drafted him.

Joe Haden said city embraced him, which is why he wanted to retire with #Browns. pic.twitter.com/A3G30aTg54

— Scott Petrak ct (@ScottPetrak) October 29, 2022

Clearly, that initial welcome still means a great deal to Haden today.

And for good reason.

Coming to a new city as a highly touted rookie presents its fair share of challenges.

Having the support of the city can do wonders for an athlete, as it did with Haden.

Goes Both Ways

As much of an impact northeast Ohio has had on Haden, he’s done plenty for the people there too.

Even media members, such as Tom Withers of the Associated Press, have taken time to display their fondness for Joe.

Joe Haden has always been a class act. Cool for him to retire with #Browns. I’m grateful our paths crossed. One of my favorite guys. pic.twitter.com/6Ch9yPX8Hf

— Tom Withers (@twithersAP) October 29, 2022

Of course, plenty of fans remain vocal in their support of Haden.

https://twitter.com/AllieM1993/status/1586461610113372160

Joe Haden was one of those pro athletes who just fit with Cleveland. While here, he was involved in the community. I still don’t understand why Browns let him walk. Joe Haden rocks.

— Steve (@SteveLuttner) October 30, 2022

I’m so happy man I could shed a tear. Joe Haden was one of the only true superstar we had when I was growing up. It hurt my heart when they cut him. Thank you for retiring a Brown @joehaden23 Cleveland will ALWAYS have your back🧡💯 https://t.co/74fYcPYolY

— Chef Zae (@ChefZae23) October 29, 2022