The Minnesota Vikings have prioritized bolstering their defense in the free agency market, with the potential signing of Pro Bowl cornerback Xavien Howard looming large on the horizon.
Following his release from the Miami Dolphins in February, Howard finds himself in unfamiliar territory as a free agent after spending the entirety of his eight-year career with the Dolphins. The decision to release him was part of the Dolphins’ efforts to navigate the 2024 salary cap constraints, presenting an opportunity for Howard to explore new avenues in his career.
CBS Sports’ Garrett Podell has identified the Vikings as an attractive destination for Howard, citing his willingness to accept a more modest contract and the prospect of reuniting with defensive coordinator Brian Flores as compelling factors. Podell notes the Vikings’ defensive improvements under Flores, particularly in their ability to disrupt opposing passing attacks, albeit with some lingering deficiencies.
Flores, who coached Howard during his tenure as head coach of the Dolphins from 2019 to 2021, has a firsthand understanding of the cornerback’s capabilities. Howard’s standout performance in 2020, which saw him lead the league in interceptions and earn his first All-Pro selection, underscores his potential impact on the Vikings’ defense.
Despite a dip in his statistical output in recent seasons, Howard remains a formidable presence in coverage, as evidenced by his ability to limit opposing receivers’ production. Teams have been hesitant to challenge him downfield, leading to fewer opportunities for interceptions but also fewer big plays allowed.
While Howard’s fit with the Vikings may raise questions given the team’s uncertainty at quarterback, there is optimism surrounding their future prospects, particularly with the potential for cap flexibility and the allure of pairing Howard with a young, talented roster.
In a recent podcast appearance, Howard expressed openness to joining a contender and indicated a willingness to prioritize team success over financial gain—a sentiment that could align with the Vikings’ aspirations for the upcoming season.
As the Vikings continue to assess their options in the free agency market and prepare for the upcoming draft, the potential addition of Howard looms large as a significant step towards fortifying their defense and positioning the team for success in the seasons to come. With his proven track record and the opportunity for a fresh start in Minnesota, Howard could emerge as a key contributor in the Vikings’ quest for postseason contention.
Trevor Squire, a sports journalist covering the Minnesota Vikings for Heavy.com, provides insightful analysis on the potential impact of Howard’s arrival in Minnesota. With his expertise in NFL coverage and keen understanding of the Vikings’ roster dynamics, Squire offers valuable insights into the implications of Howard’s potential fit with the team.
As the offseason progresses and the Vikings’ plans take shape, the football world eagerly awaits further developments regarding Howard’s future and the potential impact of his addition on the Vikings’ defense. With the potential for a reunion with Flores and the opportunity to make a significant impact on a competitive team, Howard’s decision could shape the landscape of the NFC North and the broader NFL landscape for the upcoming season and beyond.
