NFL Rumors: Miami Dolphins to Release 4-Time Pro Bowl Cornerback Xavien Howard

The Miami Dolphins are preparing to part ways with one of their most established veterans. According to NFL Network's Mike Garafolo, the Dolphins will release four-time Pro Bowl cornerback Xavien Howard at the beginning of the new league year on March 13th.

The #Dolphins have informed CB Xavien Howard he will be released at the start of the league year, sources tell me and @PSchrags. The four-time Pro Bowl selection is expected to have significant interest on the market.
— Mike Garafolo (@MikeGarafolo) February 23, 2024

Howard has been with the Dolphins since he joined them as the 38th overall pick of the 2016 NFL Draft. After an injury-riddled rookie season, he quickly established himself as one of the league's preeminent ballhawks. He nabbed an exceptional 27 interceptions from 2017 to 2021 and even led the league in picks in 2018 and 2020.

Howard's propensity for game-changing plays has declined in recent years: he has only two total interceptions in 28 starts since 2022. Still, he remains an effective player by some metrics: he allowed a respectable 81.3 passer rating on throws in his direction last season.

Unfortunately for Howard, the Dolphins have deemed that level of play expendable. Projected at nearly $28 million over the $255.4 million 2024 salary cap by overthecap, the Dolphins are one of the most cash-strapped teams in the league, and they'll save nearly $18.5 million by releasing Howard.

Still only 30 years old, Howard should have value to teams looking for an established veteran on the outside. He has already been linked to the Houston Texans.