The Miami Dolphins released Xavien Howard this offseason with a post-June 1 designation. Howard, a four-time Pro Bowl selection with two All-Pro selections, had an impressive 10 interceptions in 2020. David Kenyon from Bleacher Report identified Howard as one of the top available free agents, suggesting the Minnesota Vikings as a potential landing spot for the 30-year-old.
According to Kenyon’s article on April 28, the Dolphins faced cap challenges, leading to the departure of several starting defenders, including Howard. By utilizing the post-June 1 release for Howard, Miami saved $18.5 million in cap space for the current year.
Despite a season marked by injuries and reduced interceptions in 2022 and 2023, Howard was cleared for football activities just before the draft, as reported by Tom Pelissero of NFL Network. With the draft concluded, teams, including the Minnesota Vikings under former Miami head coach Brian Flores, are expected to show interest in Howard in the near future.
Xavien Howard Has ‘Respect’ for Brian Flores
Brian Flores, currently the defensive coordinator for the Minnesota Vikings, previously served as Howard’s head coach during the 2019-2021 seasons. The history between the two could potentially entice Howard to consider playing for the Vikings due to the familiarity and rapport established under Flores’s leadership.
Howard experienced his most successful seasons under Flores, notably recording 10 interceptions in 2020 and five in 2021. In a statement made on March 19, Howard expressed his admiration for Flores during an episode of “The OGs” podcast. aHe acknowledged Flores as a coach who, despite media scrutiny, maintained high standards and a player-centric approach, drawing inspiration from his experiences with the New England Patriots and their legendary quarterback. While their relationship may not have been overly friendly, Howard emphasized his respect for Flores and the standards he upheld during their time together with the Miami Dolphins.
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