An NFL team that fits into the heavy postseason conversation, the Green Bay Packers will have to play much better against the pass in 2024. That's why latching their wagon to a free-agent cornerback is the perfect move to fill out the roster before training camp. And former Miami Dolphins star Xavien Howard is that dude.
A second-round pick in the 2016 NFL Draft, Howard has proven to be one of the top secondary performers in the league. He's only a few years removed from punishing offenses with 15 interceptions over the course of two seasons, which included a league-best 10 interceptions and 20 passes defended to go along with one forced fumble, 51 tackles, and one tackle for loss in 2020.
Yes, he's 30 years old — and turns 31 in July. But wily defensive backs have been able to perform late in their career. Also, Howard won't be asked to do all the heavy lifting for Green Bay's defense.
Why CB Xavien Howard fits what Packers need
With starters Jaire Alexander and Eric Stokes in the starting lineup, the Packers have a comfortable level of talent. However, there's a big “if” as Alexander — one of the league's elite performers — has struggled to stay on the field. He played only four games in 2021 and seven last season.
That's why adding a player like Howard makes perfect sense. And the Packers can afford Howard, holding the eighth-most cap space in the NFL at $26,882,643.
The 6-foot-1, 203-pound Howard is ranked as the best remaining cornerback free agent. He appeared in 13 games last season with the Dolphins and had one interception. Also, Howard defended 12 passes defended, and came up with 45 total tackles.
Howard battled a foot injury last season but he’s medically cleared. And despite the injury, he still allowed an opposing passer rating of just 81.3 in coverage. He’s still capable of adding above-average help to a secondary.
Another reason the Packers need to consider Howard is their draft strategy. Green Bay drafted three safeties — Javon Bullard (Georgia), Evan Williams (Oregon) and Kitan Oladapo (Oregon State). The Packers also reeled in potential stud linebacker Edgerrin Cooper (Texas A&M) along with Ty-Ron Hopper (Missouri).
Those moves were drastically needed to shore up a shaky defense. But those selections didn't address cornerback, a position weakened by the 2023 trade of Rasul Douglas. Green Bay finally got around to it by drafting Penn State’s Kalen King in the seventh round.
Rounding out Green Bay's cornerback room are Keisean Nixon, Corey Ballentine, Carrington Valentine, Robert Rochell and Benny Sapp III. If there's help there, it isn't eye-popping.
Green Bay defense key to 2024 season
It doesn't take an NFL savant to see the Packers are set on the offensive side of the football. Based on last year's finishing surge by Jordan Love, the Packers could have one of the league's most dynamic offensive units. And Green Bay fans have fallen in love with all of the young talent the offense possesses.
But the NFL is a two-way street. To get to the big house, the defense has to provide adequate results. The Packers got more physical during the draft, which is an important step.
If the secondary can keep the lid on opposing offenses, this could be a Super Bowl season. It's not a matter of locking opponents down, it's simply holding them in check. That will allow the offense to cook and create game-by-game separation that results in victories.
Follow Us
Subscribe
