“Detroit Lions Eye Cornerback Upgrade: Xavien Howard Emerges as a Potential Game-Changer”
The Detroit Lions are presented with an expanding array of choices to bolster their cornerback unit. On February 23, the Miami Dolphins strategically released veteran cornerback Xavien Howard as part of a salary cap-saving maneuver.
Shortly after Howard’s release, Garrett Podell of CBS Sports identified the Lions as a potential destination for the seasoned cornerback.
Despite the Detroit Lions’ commendable progress, securing a spot as NFC runner-ups with key contributions from rookies like running back Jahmyr Gibbs, tight end Sam LaPorta, and safety Brian Branch during the conference championship round, concerns linger over the team’s secondary. The pass defense, ranking 19th in the NFL with 336.1 passing yards per game allowed, falls below the league average.
Podell emphasizes that Howard could bring much-needed experience to the Lions’ overall youthful defensive backfield.
Although Xavien Howard did not earn a Pro Bowl nod in 2023, marking the first time since 2019, his track record includes a notable achievement in 2020 when he secured first-team All-Pro honors and finished third in the Defensive Player of the Year voting.
