Fansided

Projecting the NFL’s statistical leaders for 2014

By Patrick Schmidt

Dec 29, 2013; Oakland, CA, USA; Denver Broncos wide receiver Demaryius Thomas (88) celebrates with quarterback Peyton Manning (18) after scoring a touchdown against the Oakland Raiders during the second quarter at O.co Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 29, 2013; Oakland, CA, USA; Denver Broncos wide receiver Demaryius Thomas (88) celebrates with quarterback Peyton Manning (18) after scoring a touchdown against the Oakland Raiders during the second quarter at O.co Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports /
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Oct 3, 2013; Cleveland, OH, USA; Cleveland Browns cornerback Joe Haden (23) takes the field before a game against the Buffalo Bills at FirstEnergy Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Ron Schwane-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 3, 2013; Cleveland, OH, USA; Cleveland Browns cornerback Joe Haden (23) takes the field before a game against the Buffalo Bills at FirstEnergy Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Ron Schwane-USA TODAY Sports /

Joe Haden, Cleveland Browns — Interceptions

Haden often gets overlooked when discussing the top cornerbacks in the NFL, but he’s right there in the conversation with the likes of Richard Sherman and Patrick Peterson.

It would be easy to pick Sherman to once again lead the NFL in interceptions after 16 the past two seasons, including eight last year to lead the league, but I don’t think he’s going to get many quarterbacks dumb enough to throw his way this year.

Remember when Nnamdi Asomugha was regarded as the best corner in the league from 2007-2010 after he had a breakout season with eight picks in 2006? The following four years he had a total of three interceptions in four seasons and still made two All-Pro teams. I think Sherman is headed for that distinction where he gets thrown at once or twice a game.

Haden had four interceptions last year and a whopping 20 pass deflections, two off the league lead, and I think some of those deflections turn into interceptions this year.

The Browns have a young and blossoming defense with an improving pass rush coming from Barkevious Mingo who could help Haden pick off a few more balls when quarterbacks have to rush their throw. Look for Haden to surpass his career-high of six interceptions he had as a rookie and get seven this year.

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