Former Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Joe Haden found himself caught in a tense international situation over the weekend, briefly checking in with fans to confirm he is safe while attempting to return home to the United States. Haden is currently in Cabo, Mexico, where trouble has broken out across the country amid the killing of cartel leader ‘El Mencho’.
Haden appeared momentarily on his Deebo & Joe podcast alongside former teammate James Harrison after cartel-related violence erupted in parts of the country.
The unrest followed the reported killing of ‘El Mencho’ – real name Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes – the leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), during a Mexican Special Forces operation reportedly supported by U.S. authorities.
The retaliation has led to clashes between cartel members, police, and military forces in several regions, with major transportation hubs reportedly impacted.
Match in Aguascalientes halted amid cartel violence concerns
Haden admitted that he shouldn’t have traveled south of the border after being advised not to and is concerned about his ability to get back home.
“I should’ve listened to you. I should’ve listened to you, Deebo,” Haden told Harrison. “Honestly, I’m a little spooked, brother. I can’t even lie to you.
“It’s getting real tricky on this side of the world. I need to get back, get my feet planted on U.S. territory. I’m not even trying to be funny. I’m a little spooked.”
Haden specifically referenced concerns about cartel activity near airports, noting the unpredictable nature of the violence.
25 dead in cartel attacks
According to the Associated Press, at least 25 members of the Mexican National Guard have been killed amid the unrest.
“I’m trying to book my stuff. I got a flight I can get now,” Haden said. “I really tried to get on this show to show you my face, let you know I am good, but I really do need to slide.”
He appeared only briefly before exiting the episode, leaving Harrison to finish the show solo.
While Haden‘s concern is understandable, his location provides some reassurance.
The most significant outbreaks of violence have been reported in areas such as Puerto Vallarta and Guadalajara – both in the state of Jalisco – following the operation that resulted in Oseguera Cervantes‘ death.
Guadalajara was reportedly shut down overnight in response to cartel retaliation, with roadblocks and disruptions affecting daily life.
Cabo, however, sits nearly 800 miles away from Puerto Vallarta and is not in the same region experiencing the heaviest clashes.
Haden did not report any direct violence in his immediate area, and his ability to access a departing flight suggests that local conditions remain stable.
Airports targeted in cartel violence
Still, the uncertainty surrounding cartel retaliation has understandably unsettled travelers across Mexico.
Airports and public infrastructure have been focal points in prior cartel responses, making Haden‘s apprehension grounded in real-world concerns rather than speculation.
The former Pro Bowl cornerback’s decision to address the situation directly on his podcast reflects both transparency and caution.
By showing his face and reassuring listeners, he sought to calm speculation while acknowledging the seriousness of the environment.
Haden told Harrison that his scheduled flight was set to depart within about 20 minutes of the recording. If all proceeds as planned, he is expected to land back in the United States.