Browns news, features and notes
- Brandon Weeden surprised Browns signed QB Brian Hoyer, but welcomes challengers
- Browns inside linebacker Craig Robertson discusses his opportunity to win starting job
- Browns special-teams ace Johnson Bademosi embracing switch from cornerback to free safety
- Video: Quarterbacks Brandon Weeden, Jason Campbell react to Browns adding Brian Hoyer to mix
- Brandon Weeden taking steps to prove he’s ‘the guy’ as Browns add Brian Hoyer to quarterback mix
- Browns owner Jimmy Haslam tells trucking industry leaders he knew nothing about fuel-rebate fraud at his Pilot Flying J company
SUBSCRIBE VIA RSS
Browns CB Joe Haden named finalist for Cleveland's Pro Athlete of Year along with Indians SS Asdrubal Cabrera, P Justin Masterson
Browns cornerback Joe Haden is one of three finalists for Professional Athlete of the Year, the Greater Cleveland Sports Commission announced. The others are shortstop Asdrubal Cabrera and starting pitcher Justin Masterson of the Indians.
The winner will be announced Feb. 2 at the Greater Cleveland Sports Awards at the Renaissance Hotel.
Haden was the top cornerback for a defense that finished the 2011 regular season with the NFL's second-ranked pass defense (184.9 yards allowed per game). He did not record an interception, but he finished sixth in the NFL with 19 passes defensed. He had at least three pass breakups in three games, including a career-high five in the Browns' season-opening loss to the Cincinnati Bengals. Since being drafted seventh overall in 2010, Haden is tied for third in the league with 37 passes defensed.
Last season, Caberera hit .273 with 25 home runs, 92 RBI and 87 runs scored. He walked 44 times and struck out 119. Cabrera was one of two Indians players who made the American League All-Star team -- the other was closer Chris Perez.
Masterson compiled a record of 12-10 with an ERA of 3.21. In 216 innings pitched, he allowed 211 hits and 77 earned runs. He had 158 strikeouts and 65 walks.
Last year, Browns return man/wide receiver Josh Cribbs was named the Pro Athlete of the Year at the Greater Cleveland Sports Awards. Cribbs prevailed against Browns offensive lineman Joe Thomas and Indians outfielder Shin-Soo Choo.
