Bengals and Xavien Howard Part Ways Without a Deal
The Cincinnati Bengals recently found themselves at the center of NFL news when they hosted seasoned cornerback Xavien Howard for a visit. The Bengals, enduring a challenging season defensively, were in the market for reinforcements. Their recent game against the Baltimore Ravens underscored these weaknesses, as the defense allowed 26.2 points per game, placing them seventh in the league for most points given away.
Howard, known for his impactful tenure with the Miami Dolphins, is a four-time Pro Bowler who remains unsigned following his release earlier this year. A free agent of his caliber naturally attracted attention from teams aiming to bolster their defensive ranks. However, despite discussions, Howard and the Bengals could not come to an agreement.
For the Bengals, this missed opportunity leaves them in a tight spot. Anchored by cornerbacks Cam Taylor-Britt and Josh Newton, who have come under scrutiny this season, the Bengals are yet to find the defensive solidity they require to turn their season around. At a current record of 4-6, every game holds increasing importance as they prepare to take on the Los Angeles Chargers in Week 11, before heading into a bye week.
Howard's defensive prowess could have been a game-changer for the Bengals. Since stepping onto the field in 2016, Howard has been a force to reckon with. His career is highlighted by leading the NFL in interceptions twice and achieving a personal best in 2020 with 10 interceptions and 20 deflections. His ability to disrupt the offensive play of opposing teams would have been a valuable asset for Cincinnati, especially in bolstering their ailing secondary.
While Howard continues to train independently, staying in shape for a potential return to the gridiron, the Bengals must now navigate their remaining schedule without what could have been a pivotal acquisition. The team is undoubtedly in need of a spark that a player like Howard could have provided, as evidenced by their ongoing struggles in containing high-powered offenses.
Moreover, the Bengals’ front office is likely to remain active as they search for solutions to their defensive challenges. The looming bye week provides a brief respite—a critical window for introspection and strategic planning. As they seek to fortify their roster, other options, whether in the form of trades, further free agency pursuits, or in-house adjustments, will need to be explored to shore up their defense.
On the other hand, Howard retains his position as one of the most coveted free agents on the market. His track record and skills are unmistakable assets that could substantially lift any NFL team's secondary. For Howard, patience will likely be rewarded, as opportunities to join a contending team or a squad in need of his expertise are certain to arise as the season progresses.
As the Bengals brace themselves for the upcoming clash against the Chargers, fans and analysts alike will keenly observe how the team fares and what defensive measures are enacted in the wake of their attempt to sign Howard. The focus will be on whether they can rally to address their vulnerabilities and how the strategic decisions made during the bye week might alter their gameplay in the latter half of the season.
For now, the intersection of Xavien Howard's career and the Bengals’ defensive saga remains an intriguing footnote in the ongoing NFL season, leaving both parties to speculate on what might have been and what lies ahead. As the league marches forward, the Bengals’ pursuit of defensive stability continues, while Howard's journey to his next football chapter remains one to watch.