All-Pro cornerback Xavien Howard agreed to a five-year, $90 million extension to stay with the Miami Dolphins.
The former Baylor standout gets $36 million guaranteed and a $17 million signing bonus.
That’s a fair deal for both sides after Howard played 16 games in consecutive seasons.
In 2021, he had 50 tackles, five interceptions, and a sack.
The Dolphins know that his best years are ahead of him, hence the long-term extension.
His new contract signifies the team’s commitment to building their defense.
However, this offseason was dominated by their signings on offense.
Miami brought in Cedrick Wilson, Raheem Mostert, Chase Edmonds, Terron Armstead, and Connor Williams to get Tua Tagovailoa much help.
But their biggest acquisition is Tyreek Hill, who signed a four-year, $120 million deal.
Those transactions may have closed the gap between the Dolphins and their AFC rivals.
Likewise, Howard pointed out that Mike McDaniel’s hiring will usher in an improved offensive philosophy for the squad.
Xavien Howard says with new deal he hopes to retire here with a HOF jacket.
X says there’s a different positive energy under HC Mike McDaniel & he’s hopeful he’ll “bring the offense up to standard” everyone wants. Joked he has to get his hamstrings right to cover Tyreek Hill. pic.twitter.com/J4jNX1QPX7
— Cameron Wolfe (@CameronWolfe) April 6, 2022
NFL Network reporter Cameron Wolfe tweeted, “Xavien Howard says with new deal he hopes to retire here with a HOF jacket.”
He added, “X says there’s a different positive energy under HC Mike McDaniel & he’s hopeful he’ll “bring the offense up to standard” everyone wants. Joked, he has to get his hamstrings right to cover Tyreek Hill.”
Did Howard Take A Shot At Brian Flores?
Saying that McDaniel brings positive energy could be a subtle criticism against former head coach Brian Flores.
Under his tenure, the Dolphins failed to make the playoffs despite having ten and nine-win seasons.
Of all people, Howard would also know that Miami’s offense needs improvement.
Flores should have paid attention to upgrading that side of the ball but didn’t.
Defense became their calling card, and it helped them win several games.
Unfortunately, their firepower wasn’t enough against elite offenses like the Buffalo Bills and Kansas City Chiefs.
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