The Minnesota Vikings have been actively fortifying their defense in free agency, and they might just land a significant playmaker in the form of Pro Bowl cornerback Xavien Howard.
Released by the Miami Dolphins in February with three years remaining on his hefty five-year, $90 million contract extension, Howard enters free agency for the first time in his eight-year career. This move was aimed at helping the Dolphins manage their 2024 salary cap.
Garrett Podell of CBS Sports sees the Vikings as an excellent fit for Howard, especially considering his willingness to sign a more team-friendly deal and reunite with defensive coordinator Brian Flores.
In a piece written on March 22, Podell highlights the defensive improvements under Flores, particularly in his first season with the Vikings. Despite this progress, the team still struggled against the pass, showcasing a need for enhancement. With Flores having coached Howard for three seasons, there’s a natural synergy between the two. Howard’s veteran presence could greatly benefit the Vikings’ defense, especially with the departure of key players like Danielle Hunter.
Howard’s connection with Flores runs deep. Under Flores’ tutelage, Howard earned his first All-Pro nod in 2020, leading the league with 10 interceptions and displaying remarkable prowess in coverage, allowing just a 51.2% completion rate on targets.
Recent reports indicate the Vikings have expressed interest in other veteran cornerbacks like L’Jarius Sneed, signaling their continued pursuit of defensive upgrades.
During an appearance on “The OGs Podcast” on March 19, Howard expressed openness to taking a pay cut to join a contender, emphasizing his desire to make an impact on a team poised for success.
While the Vikings may face uncertainties at the quarterback position, they have the potential to attract top talent like Howard, especially with ample cap flexibility and the promise of a competitive roster.
In terms of fit, Howard’s performance metrics from Pro Football Focus may suggest a slight decline last season, but this could be attributed to opposing teams avoiding challenging him directly. Despite fewer interceptions, Howard still maintained strong coverage metrics, showcasing his ability to neutralize top receivers.
Overall, Howard’s addition could significantly bolster the Vikings’ defense, providing a seasoned presence in the secondary and potentially elevating the team’s contention prospects in the upcoming season.
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