In the realm of NFL free agency, news broke when the Cincinnati Bengals entertained a visit from the acclaimed cornerback Xavien Howard. Known for his exceptional prowess on the field and a career that boasts four Pro Bowl appearances, Howard remains a high-profile free agent following his release by the Miami Dolphins earlier this year.
The Bengals, keen to bolster a defense that has struggled this season, engaged in discussions with Howard but ultimately could not reach an agreement. Despite this setback, the Bengals' interest in Howard underscores their urgent need for defensive improvements, particularly in their secondary, amidst a challenging season.
Bengals’ Defensive Woes
This NFL season, the Bengals have grappled with evident defensive vulnerabilities, notably with starting cornerbacks Cam Taylor-Britt and Josh Newton, who have faced intense scrutiny. These challenges have been starkly highlighted in the team's performance. Currently, the Cincinnati defense ranks seventh in the NFL for the most points permitted per game, averaging 26.2 points, a statistic that is less than favorable for a team with playoff aspirations.
The Bengals' fallibility was further exposed during a painful Week 10 loss to the Baltimore Ravens. This defeat amplified the urgency to seek defensive reinforcements, yet negotiations with Howard did not yield a deal. Howard's potential addition could have provided a much-needed boost, given his distinct ability to make game-changing plays.
Xavien Howard’s Storied Career
Xavien Howard has carved out a noteworthy career, demonstrating a rare talent for intercepting passes. During his time with the Dolphins from 2016 to 2023, Howard led the NFL in interceptions on two occasions. His standout season came in 2020, when he recorded a career-high 10 interceptions and an impressive 20 deflections, a feat that further highlighted his impact as a premier defensive back.
Despite his release from the Dolphins, Howard, 31, remains a coveted asset; however, he has yet to return to the field for the 2024 NFL season. Committed to maintaining his form and readiness, Howard continues to train independently, keeping open the possibility of signing with a team in need of his veteran expertise and leadership.
Looking Forward
As the Bengals navigate the remainder of the season with a 4-6 record, they are set to face the Los Angeles Chargers in Week 11, followed by a bye week. The upcoming schedule provides them with a crucial window to regroup and recalibrate their strategy, particularly in addressing their defensive deficiencies. Encountering a team like the Chargers, who possess dynamic offensive capabilities, further emphasizes the dire need for defensive reinforcement that the Bengals sought with Howard.
As Cincinnati aspires to reverse their fortunes, the pursuit and potential signing of a player of Howard's caliber would undeniably inject a dose of experience and talent into their struggling secondary. However, as it stands, the team must explore alternate avenues to shore up their defense and improve their standing within the league.
For Howard, the future remains open with possibilities. His dedication to staying fit and ready ensures that upon finding the right opportunity, he can seamlessly integrate into a defensive unit seeking to augment its secondary with his proven skill set.
The Bengals' overtures toward Howard resonate with their pressing need to transform their defensive dynamics. As the NFL season unfolds, all eyes will remain on Cincinnati's efforts to redeem their season, as well as on Howard's next career move, which undoubtedly will capture attention across the league.