Bucs’ Morris taken by Haden, Tebow

Posted Mar 17, 2010 by Aaron Oberlin

Updated Mar 17, 2010 at 10:20 PM

While rumors circled Ben Hill Griffin Stadium about Joe Haden clocking a 4.39 in the 40-yard dash, he continued to wow NFL scouts with his overall skills during the University of Florida’s pro day.

The former Gators cornerback made a good impression on a day when nearly every person in the stadium came to see the unveiling of former UF quarterback Tim Tebow’s new throwing motion.

One of the people who liked what he saw from Haden was Tampa Bay Buccaneers coach Raheem Morris.

“I remember when Joe Haden was coming out of high school. He was one of the guys when I was at Kansas State that we wanted to target,” said Morris. “But we had no chance to get him because the Gators were all over him. He’s a great talent.”

Haden also impressed spectators, drawing applause during a coverage drill. He attacked the ball, catching deep passes at their highest points, and displayed quickness and fluidity.

Haden said he was happiest with his 40-yard dash. He knew he ran well on a wet field, despite no official time being announced right away.

Many NFL Draft pundits predict Haden to be selected between the No. 5 and No. 10 picks in the first round. With the No. 3 pick, it is believed the Bucs are interested in defensive tackles Ndamukong Suh and Gerald McCoy. If the linemen go in the top two spots, then Haden could end up in Tampa.

Having drafted quarterback Josh Freeman last year in the first round, many believe Tampa has no interest in Tebow.  Morris made light of the situation after Tebow’s workout.

“Are you kidding me,” he joked, “that’s Tebow. The guy can play quarterback.”

*Erik Sabol contributed to this report