Selected by the Miami Dolphins in the second round of the 2016 NFL Draft, Xavien Howard swiftly cemented his status as one of the NFL’s elite defensive backs. From 2018 to 2022, he earned four consecutive Pro Bowl nods and led the league in interceptions twice.
His peak performance came in 2020 when he recorded a staggering 10 picks, 51 tackles, a forced fumble, and 20 passes defended. This prolific season earned him a First-Team All-Pro selection and a third-place finish in Defensive Player of the Year voting.
Indianapolis Colts Secondary Seeks Xavien Howard’s Impact
The Indianapolis Colts’ secondary isn’t the league’s worst by any means, ranking 16th in passing defense last season. Still, the team has room for improvement, especially with JuJu Brents, Dallis Flowers, and Kenny Moore as the primary cornerbacks. Moore predominantly plays nickelback, leaving the Colts vulnerable on the outside.
Howard, despite a noticeable decline in performance last season, could help stabilize the unit. He managed 45 tackles, an interception, and 12 passes defended in just 13 games in 2023, demonstrating his continued capability even in a down year.
Why Xavien Howard Fits the Indianapolis Colts
At 30 years old, Xavien Howard may have lost some of the explosiveness that defined his earlier seasons, but his veteran savvy and proven ball-hawking skills could complement the Colts’ existing cornerbacks perfectly. His experience would add depth and a stabilizing presence to the secondary, offering the team flexibility and security against high-octane passing offenses.
Xavien Howard Is such a raider pic.twitter.com/hRMWmvUtPL
— Anthony (@AnticCube) May 4, 2024
Indianapolis Colts Looking to Contend
With quarterback Anthony Richardson returning healthy and eager to lead the offense after an injury-shortened rookie campaign, Indianapolis aims to make some noise in the upcoming season. The Indianapolis Colts narrowly missed the playoffs last year after a winner-take-all loss to the Houston Texans for the AFC South crown.
Adding a proven defensive playmaker like Howard might be the defensive boost they need to make a deeper postseason run.
Keep an eye on how this situation unfolds, as the Indianapolis Colts could be making their case to Xavien Howard soon. Will he become a Colt and help the team reach the next level?
