Bengals Fail to Seal Deal with Xavien Howard Amid Defensive Woes
In a move that seemed poised to bolster their embattled defense, the Cincinnati Bengals recently hosted cornerback Xavien Howard, a prominent free agent, for a visit. Despite the anticipation surrounding Howard's potential to shore up a vulnerable secondary, negotiations between the Bengals and the seasoned veteran hit a standstill without a contract agreement.
The visit of such a high-profile player comes at a crucial juncture for the Bengals. Currently holding a 4-6 record, the team’s defense remains under intense scrutiny, particularly after a disappointing loss to the Baltimore Ravens in Week 10. The Bengals' defensive unit has found itself on the ropes this season, ranking seventh in the league for the most points allowed per game, a worrying 26.2 average. With starting cornerbacks Cam Taylor-Britt and Josh Newton facing difficulties, the Bengals' defensive struggles seem entrenched.
Xavien Howard's credentials are nothing short of impressive. The 31-year-old Howard, who was released by the Miami Dolphins earlier this year, is a four-time Pro Bowler with a reputation for being a tenacious ball hawk. During his tenure with the Dolphins from 2016 to 2023, Howard twice led the NFL in interceptions, cementing his status as one of the league’s elite secondary players. His remarkable 2020 season, during which he notched a career-high 10 interceptions and led the league with 20 deflections, further highlighted his knack for playmaking.
Since his release, Howard has remained unsigned and has not yet played in the 2024 NFL season. Nevertheless, he continues to train independently, keeping his skills sharp as he eyes potential opportunities for a comeback. For the Bengals, Howard could have provided a much-needed breath of experience and leadership to a defense in dire need of a catalyst.
The Bengals' strategic interest in Howard underscores the team's immediate need for defensive reinforcement. With the unabating pressure on their backline, Howard's inclusion could have served as a significant upgrade, potentially transforming the dynamics of their defense. However, the inability to finalize a deal leaves the Bengals in a precarious situation as they approach their upcoming encounter with the Los Angeles Chargers in Week 11.
The Bengals stand at a pivotal point in their season. Facing the Chargers, a team known for its offensive prowess, the defensive line will be tasked with stepping up to the challenge; a daunting prospect, particularly without the bolstered secondary personnel that a player of Howard’s caliber might have provided. Following this matchup, the Bengals will enter their bye week, offering a brief respite to reassess their strategy and make crucial adjustments moving forward.
Ultimately, the Bengals’ pursuit of Howard signals their recognition of the pressing necessity to address deficiencies on defense. While Howard's visit to Cincinnati concluded without an agreement, it highlights the team's proactive approach to reinforcing key areas in a bid for a stronger second half of the season.
As Howard remains on the market, the door remains open for future engagements, either with the Bengals or another NFL team seeking to enhance their defensive depth. For now, the Bengals must regroup and refocus on their current roster's capabilities, striving to secure victories in the upcoming weeks.