Xavien Howard, a four-time Pro Bowler and one-time All-Pro cornerback, makes a case for being the finest free agent available at his position. Following his unceremonious departure from the Miami Dolphins, the former second-round pick swore not to return to the franchise, even at a reduced pay. While he has yet to decide on his next team, the cornerback hopes that at least one organization is interested in him.
The AFC is brimming with talent, with teams like the Kansas City Chiefs, Baltimore Ravens, Buffalo Bills, and Cincinnati Bengals ranking among the best in the league. While these heavyweights were likely the four finest teams over the last five years, younger teams such as the Houston Texans are seeking to challenge their conference dominance.
The Texans, led by inexperienced quarterback C.J. Stroud, astonished everyone by reaching the AFC Divisional Round during his first season. After signing several key players in free agency, Houston is poised to position itself as a real Super Bowl contender. Xavien Howard is impressed with what the team has accomplished and hopes to join with the Texans as a free agency.
Xavien Howard Would “Love To” Sign With Texans As A Free Agent
Xavien Howard recently spoke on The OG’s Podcast to discuss his immediate future as a free agent. When questioned about the Texans specifically, the four-time Pro Bowler wasted no time complimenting the team.
“I’d want to do that back at home, in the crib. I have Houston Rockets and Texans tattoos on me. It is a viable option for me. They have one hell of a quarterback. “I adore a defensive coach.
As you can see, there are numerous reasons why Xavien Howard could choose to join with the Texans as a free agency. In addition to all of the quality on the roster, Howard is from Houston and would want nothing more than to bring a championship to his hometown.
Meanwhile, the Texans are looking for someone to start opposite Derek Stingley.
This arrangement makes sense for all parties, but at the end of the day, Xavien Howard will most likely sign with the highest bidder as a free agent. While Howard isn’t the same lockdown corner he once was, he can still aid a defense, and there can never be too many dependable cornerbacks. These five teams, in no particular order, might prohibit Howard from traveling to Houston.
Other Team Fits
Kansas City Chiefs
After losing L’Jarius Sneed to the Titans, the Kansas City Chiefs are looking for a new starting cornerback. Xavien Howard isn’t as excellent as Sneed, but the free agent is more than capable of starting alongside Trent McDuffie. While Kansas City does not have the same hometown appeal as Houston, they do have a quality quarterback and a good chance of winning the Lombardi in 2024.
Indianapolis Colts
The Indianapolis Colts are looking for a new cornerback and were reportedly in the running for L’Jarius Sneed. After losing him to the Titans, free agency Xavien Howard could be a good consolation prize. Last year, despite missing Anthony Richardson for the majority of the season, Indianapolis was one dropped pass away from making the playoffs. With their first-round selection back and healthy, the Colts have the potential to win a competitive AFC South if their secondary improves.
Buffalo Bills
Even though he spent the majority of last season on injured reserve, the Buffalo Bills might use a replacement for Tre’Davious White. With $8.5 million in salary space, the team should be able to sign Xavien Howard as a free agency. The Bills will always be competitive as long as Josh Allen is at quarterback, but they could use some secondary help if they ever want to make it to the Super Bowl.
Detroit Lions
The Detroit Lions require a cornerback, especially now that Cameron Sutton is no longer in the mix. This squad was one or two plays away from becoming NFC Champions, and they did so despite a subpar defense. With all of the offensive elements returning for another season, it stands to reason that this club might win it all with a stronger secondary. At this point in the offseason, Xavien Howard is likely the finest option on the free agent market.
New Orleans Saints
Derek Carr’s New Orleans Saints will have a strong offensive, but they will not be able to win every game in a shootout. With this in mind, this team must develop a solid defense that will allow them to compete against superior opponents. Marshon Lattimore is still a good cornerback when healthy, and teaming him with a free agent like Xavien Howard would provide this team with a consistent set of starters. While both players have dropped off since their heyday, they are still capable of helping New Orleans fight for the NFC South title.
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