The Dolphins must decide whether to release cornerback Xavien Howard, who is worth $18.5 million, in order to clear some of the team’s impending salary problems.
The longest-tenured player for the Miami Dolphins hobbled around the locker room gathering his belongings and concentrated all of his energy on bidding farewell.
As the team turned the page on the 2023 season, Xavien Howard was obviously thinking ahead. Howard is astute enough to realize that the cap-strapped Dolphins, who are $41 million over the projected salary cap, need to shake down, trade, or release a few players in order to free up salary cap space and balance the books.
Howard is a strong contender to be released because of his projected salary of $18.5 million in 2024, which includes a $3 million roster bonus. If the four-time Pro Bowl cornerback were to be labeled a June 1 release, the cap savings would be equal.
Howard responded, “I don’t know,” when asked if he will return. It’s an enterprise. I have a contract year left. My guaranteed (money) has increased, and regardless of what occurs, I’m thrilled about it.
Remember that Howard twice forced the Dolphins to give up increases that would have earned him as much as a top-five cornerback.
The 30-year-old has a history of forcing the team to negotiate once his guaranteed money has run out, much like other established, elite players in the NFL. This summer is no exception.
The only other cornerbacks on the season-ending 53-man roster signed for 2024 are Jalen Ramsey, who was named to his fifth Pro Bowl; Kader Kohou, who had a terrible second season as Miami’s nickel cornerback; and Cam Smith, the 2023 second-round pick who defensive coordinator Vic Fangio refused to play this season.
Furthermore, Nik Needham, Justin Bethel, and Eli Apple are all unrestricted free agents.
This implies that the Dolphins will probably need to recruit or develop another starting quarterback outside if Miami intends to move on from Howard, which won’t be simple.
Miami may choose to ask Howard to modify his contract, trade him this offseason, release him, or keep him at his current salary.
It’s not fixed in place. Ultimately, it’s a business as well. I’ve made the most of my eight years here. I understand if this is the final year and I have to say goodbye to some of the folks here. It’s part of the job,” said Howard, who was out for Miami’s last two games due to a left foot injury sustained on the opening play of the Ravens game. “I’m still going to do my thing wherever I go.”
Howard, 30, asked a reporter if he would accept a wage reduction if his employer placed him in that situation when he was questioned about possibly doing so.
Howard agreed by nodding his head when the report stated that he would decline.
In his 13 games this season, Howard had 45 tackles, 12 pass breakups, and one interception. “At the end of the day, it’s still money,” he remarked.
Howard’s NFL career wasn’t very strong, but since 2017, he has led the league in interceptions with 29. With 28, he is trailed by safety players Justin Simmons of Denver and Kevin Byard of Philadelphia.
With 29 career interceptions, Howard is tied for fourth place in Dolphins history. Additionally, with 95 pass deflections, he leads the club since passes defensed were first recorded in 1991.
“I enjoyed my eight years here. Howard, who had an 80.1 passer rating when opposition quarterbacks targeted his receiver this season, said, “I’m grateful for my time, whatever happens.” “I’ve made the most of my eight years here. Wherever I move, I will continue to pursue my interests.
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