The Cincinnati Bengals recently found themselves in the spotlight as they hosted one of the most notable free agents on the market, cornerback Xavien Howard. Known for his exceptional talent and seasoned experience in the NFL, Howard remains an unsigned powerhouse after being released by the Miami Dolphins earlier this year. Despite the promising nature of the talks, the Bengals and Howard were unable to finalize a deal.
The Bengals' interest in bolstering their defense comes as no surprise. The team has been facing significant challenges on the defensive end this season, reaching a critical point after a disappointing loss to the Baltimore Ravens in Week 10. Currently, the Bengals are ranked seventh in the NFL for the most points allowed per game, giving up an average of 26.2 points. These numbers clearly highlight the defensive issues plaguing the team, particularly among their starting cornerbacks, Cam Taylor-Britt and Josh Newton.
Enter Xavien Howard, a seasoned veteran and four-time Pro Bowler whose resume speaks volumes. During his years with the Dolphins from 2016 to 2023, Howard twice led the NFL in interceptions. His standout year came in 2020 when he recorded a stunning 10 interceptions and led the league with 20 deflections. Such statistics underscore Howard's potential value to any team struggling defensively, including the Bengals.
The Bengals are currently navigating a season of ups and downs, reflected in their 4-6 record. As they prepare to face the Los Angeles Chargers in Week 11, the need for defensive reinforcement is more pressing than ever. Following this matchup, the Bengals will have a bye week, providing a crucial opportunity to reassess and realign their strategies.
Xavien Howard, meanwhile, remains committed to maintaining his form, continuing to train independently. His readiness to return to the field is unquestionable, and teams in need of defensive fortification would do well to consider such an acquisition. Despite not having played in the 2024 NFL season yet, Howard's track record suggests he could still make a significant impact.
The Bengals' recent challenges signal the necessity for strategic improvements if they aim to turn their season around. Engaging with a player of Howard's caliber indicates a proactive approach, even if discussions did not yield immediate results. As the league progresses, additional opportunities could arise for the Bengals to strengthen their roster in critical areas.
The Bengals' determination to address their defensive shortcomings shows a commitment to improving performance on the field. Whether through future negotiations with Howard or by exploring other options, Cincinnati's strategy will likely continue to focus on shoring up their defense—a move that could prove decisive as they attempt to climb back into the playoff conversation.