After eight strong years with the Miami Dolphins, Xavien Howard is a free agent for the first time in his career. While he’s not the dominant force he once was, the four-time Pro Bowler remained reliable when on the field, hauling in one interception while breaking up 12 passes and recording 45 tackles. Unfortunately, due to his massive cap, the cash-strapped Dolphins had no choice but to release their former franchise staple.
Xavien Howard already said he will not return to the Miami Dolphins as a free agent, which means he will join a new team next year. While he might not land with a new organization until after the 2024 NFL Draft, PFF’s Brad Spielberger believes that the Baltimore Ravens are the best fit for the former All-Pro.
Howard was released after a great eight-year run in Miami, with his coverage grades dipping into the 50s in each of the past two seasons. He has expressed a strong desire to play for a contender, and has even said he’d be open to taking less money to chase a ring. Pivoting to playing more man coverage could get him back to where he excelled earlier in his career.
Free Agent CB Xavien Howard Linked to Baltimore Ravens
Even though they didn’t win the Super Bowl, the Ravens had the best overall roster in the league last year. However, all good things must come to an end, and Baltimore lost several talented free agents, including but not limited to Patrick Queen, Jadeveon Clowney, Odell Beckham (unofficially), Geno Stone, Kevin Zeitler, and John Simpson. However, this team will be competitive as long as Lamar Jackson is on the roster, and that alone should be enough to make Xavien Howard want to sign as a free agent.
Of course, the Ravens won’t be the only team interested in signing Xavien Howard as a free agent. Even though his play has dipped in recent seasons, Spielberger notes that he could thrive once again in a more favorable scheme. In no particular order, these five teams should make a move for his services.
Other Team Fits
Kansas City Chiefs
The Chiefs secondary was a strength last year, but it needs more depth following the L’Jarius Sneed trade. Trent McDuffie is a great player, but he can only cover one receiver at a time. Opposing teams will always throw to try and keep up with Kansas City’s offense, so the defense could use a free agent ballhawk like Xavien Howard.
Houston Texans
The Houston Texans have everything Xavien Howard could want as a free agent. The team has plenty of money, a need at the position, and a wide-open championship window led by a great young quarterback in C.J. Stroud. As a bonus, Howard is a Houston native and should welcome the opportunity to play for his childhood team.
Carolina Panthers
The Carolina Panthers are trying to sign Stephon Gilmore as a free agent, but Xavien Howard could be a fine consolation prize. While this team probably won’t compete for a title in 2024, they should be considerably better than in 2023. With notable improvements to the offense, Howard could be interested in helping turn things around for this organization.
Detroit Lions
The Detroit Lions cornerbacks need some reinforcements following the Cameron Sutton release. While Gilmore is unquestionably the top option on the free agent market, Xavien Howard still makes sense for this team. The Lions have one of the best offenses in the league, which means other teams are going to throw early and often. While Howard might let up a reception or two, his aggressive style leads to interceptions, which is what this team needs.
Main Photo: Sam Navarro – USA Today Sports
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