Browns cornerback Joe Haden was kicked out of his team’s morning practice on Wednesday for reportedly being too physical with his teammates. The story sounds quite odd because you figure a coach would encourage physical play, but the reason actually makes sense.
According to Mary Kay Cabot of the Cleveland Plain Dealer, Haden had just allowed a touchdown to receiver Travis Benjamin in a 7-on-7 drill and dragged the rookie down by the back of his jersey. Haden had been previously warned about being too rough with his teammates, and it doesn’t help matters that Benjamin has been bothered by injuries.
Browns coach Pat Shurmur ordered Haden off the field after the incident, but the two reconciled and Haden participated in the afternoon practice.
Although the story may make it seem like the Browns are being wusses, this probably was a good response by Shurmur. Not only does he not want to condone behavior that would lead to personal foul penalties during games, but he also likely feels the need to discipline Haden, who is also facing a possible four-game suspension for reportedly failing a drug test.
