Cabo San Lucas, Mexico (February 24, 2026).- Former NFL cornerback Joe Haden has spoken publicly about his recent trip to Mexico, voicing concern over cartel violence while expressing hope to return safely to the United States. Haden, who retired from the league in 2022 after a standout career with the Cleveland Browns and Pittsburgh Steelers, traveled to Cabo San Lucas for vacation but found himself unsettled by reports of unrest in the region.
In an interview, Haden acknowledged the beauty and appeal of Mexico’s coastal destinations but admitted that the recent wave of cartel-related violence has cast a shadow over his stay. “It’s tough to enjoy paradise when you’re hearing about what’s happening just miles away,” he said, noting that safety remains his top priority.
The violence follows the death of cartel leader Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, known as El Mencho, which triggered retaliatory attacks across several Mexican states. Authorities reported vehicles set ablaze and businesses targeted, prompting U.S. officials to issue travel warnings. Cabo San Lucas, a popular tourist hub at the tip of the Baja California peninsula, has not been at the epicenter of the violence, but heightened security measures have been visible.
Haden emphasized that he has not experienced direct danger but remains cautious. He expressed gratitude for local hospitality and underscored his desire to return home soon. “Mexico is beautiful, but I’m ready to get back to my family in the States,” he said.
His comments highlight the tension many travelers feel: balancing the allure of Mexico’s resorts with the reality of cartel activity. For Haden, the trip serves as a reminder that even high-profile visitors are not immune to the anxieties surrounding safety in the region.
With information from FOX News
The Cabo Post
