Browns coach Mike Pettine: Joe Haden 'hasn't played well' at times
Cleveland Browns head coach Mike Pettine said Monday that star cornerback Joe Haden has "not played well" at some inopportune times this season, according to Cleveland.com.
Pettine's comments came after Haden gave up the play that allowed the Baltimore Ravens to kick the game-winning field goal in their 23-21 win at Cleveland on Sunday.
With less than two minutes remaining, Haden was beaten by Ravens wide receiver Steve Smith on a go-route, leading to a 32-yard completion. Baltimore then ran out the clock and was successful in its last-second field goal attempt.
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Haden has also given up several other big passing plays this season, including a 35-yard touchdown pass to Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Antonio Brown in Week 1 and a nine-yard touchdown pass to New Orleans Saints tight end Jimmy Graham in Week 2.
"He's played well at times, but as you can see, at some inopportune times he's not played well,'' said Pettine. "I think he'll admit that, as well. That's what we talk about. The great ones are going to make big plays when it's needed, and I think that's one area where Joe will look to improve."
The Browns signed Haden to a five-year, $68 million contract extension this offseason. He made the Pro Bowl for the first time in his career last season after a year in which he had 54 tackles and four interceptions, one of which he returned for a touchdown.
- Ben Estes
