The Indianapolis Colts have made a significant move by adding former All-Pro cornerback Xavien Howard to their roster as they gear up for the upcoming NFL season. The decision to sign Howard comes after a string of injuries hit the Colts' cornerback group during training camp, leaving them in need of reinforcements in the defensive backfield.
Xavien Howard, represented by agent David Canter, is joining the Colts following a season away from football due to a Lisfranc foot injury suffered in 2023. Despite garnering interest from teams like the Cincinnati Bengals and Dallas Cowboys last season, Howard remained unsigned. Known for his impressive playmaking abilities, Howard led the NFL in interceptions in both 2018 and 2020, showcasing himself as one of the league's premier cornerbacks during his tenure with the Miami Dolphins.
The Colts' cornerback unit has been hit hard by injuries leading up to the season opener. Notably, veteran slot cornerback Kenny Moore II is nursing a knee injury, promising rookie Justin Walley is sidelined with a torn ACL, and both Jaylon Jones and JuJu Brents are dealing with hamstring issues. These setbacks have forced the Colts to address their cornerback depth, with head coach Shane Steichen openly acknowledging the concern surrounding this position group.
By bringing in Howard, the Colts are aiming to shore up their secondary alongside previous additions like Charvarius Ward and Cam Bynum. Howard's experience and track record of success in the NFL make him a valuable asset as Indianapolis looks to fortify its defense for the challenges of the upcoming season.
During his tenure with the Dolphins, Howard proved to be a standout performer, starting in 99 out of 100 games played since being drafted in the second round of the 2016 NFL Draft. His standout season in 2020 earned him First-Team All-Pro honors and placed him in the conversation for the Defensive Player of the Year award. Despite his injury-shortened campaign in 2023, Howard's past achievements and playmaking ability make him a compelling addition to the Colts' roster.
As Howard embarks on this new chapter with the Colts, fans and analysts will be eager to see how he integrates into the team's defense and contributes to their success on the field. With the regular season fast approaching, Howard's presence is set to bolster the Colts' cornerback group and provide much-needed depth and talent to the secondary.
The one-year deal worth up to $5 million that Howard signed with the Colts underscores the team's commitment to adding proven talent to their roster as they pursue a successful campaign in the competitive AFC landscape. As the NFL season unfolds, all eyes will be on Xavien Howard as he looks to make an impact and showcase his skills in a new environment with the Indianapolis Colts.