The Dallas Cowboys, currently holding a 5-7 record and riding a two-game winning streak, are still technically in the playoff hunt despite dealing with significant injuries. The team is not giving up on the season and is actively seeking ways to improve their roster. Specifically, the Cowboys are looking to bolster their secondary, which led them to work out four defensive backs on Thursday, including controversial former Miami Dolphins cornerback Xavien Howard, according to ESPN’s Field Yates.
In addition to Howard, the Cowboys also tried out three other defensive backs: Troy Pride, Joshuah Bledsoe, and Dee Delaney. Howard, who has had an impressive career, was a standout player when on the field. The eight-year NFL veteran earned four Pro Bowl selections and two All-Pro honors during his career, showcasing his ability as one of the league’s top cornerbacks.
Last season, Howard recorded one interception, 12 passes defended, and 45 total tackles, while allowing just one touchdown in coverage. His exceptional performance in 2020 included leading the league with 10 interceptions and 20 passes defended. His strong showing that year helped him finish third in the Defensive Player of the Year voting, further solidifying his reputation as one of the best cornerbacks in the NFL.
At his peak, Howard was considered a top cornerback and was rewarded with a lucrative $90 million contract by the Dolphins. However, his situation has taken a turn this year due to off-field controversies that have overshadowed his football career. These legal and personal issues have kept him off the field, despite his potential to contribute at a high level.
The controversy surrounding Howard stems from a lawsuit that was filed against him, alleging that he sent explicit photos of a teenager’s mother to the child after the mother chose not to get an abortion. Additionally, Howard has been accused of recording explicit activities with a woman without her consent, among other allegations. These serious accusations have led to questions about his future in the league.
Despite these legal troubles, Howard worked out with the Cowboys on Thursday, which could indicate that there may still be interest from NFL teams in signing him. It’s unclear what the next steps will be for Howard, as the legal situation remains unresolved, and the Cowboys will likely need to weigh both his past performance and current controversy in any potential decision to sign him.
The Cowboys’ interest in Howard comes at a time when they are seeking to strengthen their secondary. As the season progresses and the team fights for a playoff spot, the addition of a player with Howard’s skills could be a valuable asset, but his off-field issues add an element of uncertainty to the situation.
