Florida’s Haden leaving school early for NFL draft (AP)

GAINESVILLE, Fla. (AP)—Florida cornerback Joe Haden is skipping his final year
of eligibility and entering the NFL draft.

Haden announced his intentions Sunday, two days after No. 5 Florida beat
fourth-ranked Cincinnati 51-24 in the Sugar Bowl.

“This was a tough decision, and I spent a lot of time with my family
talking about it,” Haden said in a statement released by the school. “I’m so
proud that I had the chance to be a Gator. It’s been one of the best experiences
of my life.”

The All-American led the Gators with four interceptions this season and was
a finalist for the Thorpe Award, given annually to the nation’s top defensive
back. He also had 68 tackles, 10 pass breakups, three sacks and two forced
fumbles.

The first true freshman to start at cornerback for Florida, Haden started
every game in three seasons. He finished with 218 tackles and eight
interceptions.

He is widely considered college football’s top cornerback and is expected to
be a top-10 pick in the NFL draft.

“We’re sad to see Joe go because he’s a great leader and a dynamic
player,” interim coach Steve Addazio said. “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.”