In a move that has sparked intrigue and speculation within the NFL community, the Cincinnati Bengals recently extended an invitation to free agent cornerback Xavien Howard for a visit. Howard, a distinguished four-time Pro Bowler, became available after his release by the Miami Dolphins earlier this year. Despite the anticipated buzz surrounding his talent, a deal between the seasoned veteran and the Bengals failed to materialize.
For the Bengals, this missed opportunity could have been a critical step towards bolstering a defense currently facing significant challenges. The unit has been under intense scrutiny of late, particularly following a tough defeat at the hands of the Baltimore Ravens in Week 10. As it stands, Cincinnati's defense ranks seventh in the league for points allowed per game, with an average of 26.2, a statistic that underscores their ongoing struggles on the field.
Defensive Concerns
The Bengals' defensive woes have been further compounded by underperformances from their starting cornerbacks, Cam Taylor-Britt and Josh Newton. This duo has been unable to curtail opposing offenses effectively, contributing to the overall defensive instability that has plagued the team this season. The Bengals, now at a 4-6 record, are clearly in need of reinforcement as they eye a potential turnaround.
Unfortunately for Cincinnati, Howard's visit did not culminate in a new signing, leaving them to continue their search for defensive upgrades. Howard, who has led the NFL in interceptions twice during his tenure with the Dolphins, represents the kind of high-impact player that could address some of the Bengals' deficiencies in their defensive backfield. His standout 2020 season, where he notched a career-high 10 interceptions and led the league with 20 deflections, remains a testament to his playmaking abilities.
Howard's Continued Pursuit
Despite the setback with the Bengals, Xavien Howard remains a hot commodity on the free agent market. The veteran cornerback, who has yet to participate in the 2024 NFL season, is continuing to train independently, staying prepared for any potential opportunities that may arise. Given his track record and the scarcity of available top-tier cornerbacks, it is likely only a matter of time before Howard finds a new home in the league.
Upcoming Challenges
As for the Bengals, they are gearing up for an upcoming face-off against the Los Angeles Chargers in Week 11. This matchup presents another formidable challenge as the team attempts to rectify its course for the remainder of the season. The Bengals will subsequently have a bye week, offering them a brief respite and the opportunity to reassess their strategies moving forward.
The pursuit of defensive fortification remains a priority for Cincinnati as they navigate the remainder of their schedule. Whether they can find a viable solution to their current woes remains to be seen, but the need for enhanced performance in the defensive backfield is clear. With a talented free agent like Howard still on the market, the Bengals, and perhaps other teams, may yet seize the opportunity to make vital improvements.
As the season progresses, all eyes will be on how Cincinnati addresses its defensive issues, and whether Xavien Howard finds himself with a new team ready to capitalize on his considerable skill set. For now, both remain questions of strategic importance as teams across the league continue to navigate the complexities of the NFL season.