Contract Talks Between The Browns & CB Joe Haden Still Ongoing

Browns CB Joe Haden confirmed on Thursday that contract talks between the two sides are still ongoing.

“I’d like to get it done as soon as possible, but we’re still working on it,” Haden said, per Nate Ulrich. 

This is line with a previous report from Albert Breer of the NFL Network who mentioned that the Browns were discussing an extension with Haden before the start of free agency.

Haden, 25, is entering the final year of his rookie contract and would be without a doubt one of the best available players in next year’s free agent market if the Browns are unable to get an extension worked out.

The Browns have plenty of cap space to work with and Haden is clearly deserving of a long-term deal, so it seems reasonable to suggest that he could be in line for a top-five salary. However, it could make sense for him to wait until Richard Sherman signs his next deal as he is widely expected to raise the bar for cornerbacks.

Haden finished the 2013 season with 54 tackles, four interceptions — one of which for a touchdown — and 20 pass defenses.

We’ll have more regarding Haden and a new contract as the news is available.