Joe Haden is going pro

The Gator Nation was not surprised to hear Joe Haden put his name in the 2010 NFL Draft. With every NFL scout projecting him as an early first round pick, it was hard for Haden to turn down the chance and money awaiting him in the NFL.

“This was a tough decision, and I spent a lot of time with my family talking about it,” Haden said. “I’m so proud that I had the chance to be a Gator. It’s been one of the best experiences of my life. Coach [Urban] Meyer and Coach [Vance] Bedford have helped me in so many ways. I’ll always be thankful to them for everything, and I know I’ll never forget the fans in Gator Nation.”

Haden’s resume includes a consensus first-team All-American, finalist for the Thorpe Award, and first-team All-SEC honors, which are chosen by the coaches and the Associated Press. Joe was the first true freshman to ever start at cornerback for Florida and started every game while a Gator. Haden will finish his Gators career with eight interceptions and 218 tackles.

When asked, interim head coach Steve Addazio had this to say, “We’re sad to see Joe go because he’s a great leader and a dynamic player, but we know that with his tremendous talent, he will be a special player at the next level. This is the opportunity of a lifetime for Joe, and we wish him nothing but the best.”

The NFL Scouting Combine will be held from Feb. 24 to March 2 and the NFL Draft will be held April 22-24