Bengals Explore Defensive Reinforcement with Xavien Howard Visit
The Cincinnati Bengals are on the hunt for defensive upgrades as they navigate a season riddled with challenges. Recently, they entertained the idea of bolstering their defense by bringing in Xavien Howard, a seasoned cornerback and free agent, for a visit. Despite Howard's impressive resume, which includes being a four-time Pro Bowler and leading the NFL in interceptions twice, the two sides were unable to reach an agreement.
Defensive Woes Plague Bengals
The Bengals' defense has come under intense scrutiny this NFL season, a situation exacerbated by a disappointing loss to the Baltimore Ravens in Week 10. With a record of 4-6, the team has visible cracks in its defensive line-up, particularly at the cornerback position. Starters Cam Taylor-Britt and Josh Newton have faced significant challenges in thwarting opposition offenses, a factor that has contributed to the Bengals allowing an average of 26.2 points per game. This places them at a worrying seventh in the league for the most points conceded per game.
The pursuit of Xavien Howard underlines the Bengals' urgent need for a defensive stalwart. Howard’s track record with the Miami Dolphins suggests he could have been a perfect fit to plug the gaps in Cincinnati's secondary. During his tenure with the Dolphins from 2016 to 2023, Howard consistently topped interception charts and in 2020, he hit a career-high with 10 interceptions, also leading the league with 20 deflections.
Howard’s Availability
Released by the Miami Dolphins earlier this year, Howard remains unsigned and actively training, patiently awaiting the right opportunity. Despite his illustrious credentials, he has not participated in the 2024 NFL season. His availability as a free agent remains an attractive proposition for teams like the Bengals, who are in search of impactful defensive enhancements.
However, as their discussions with Howard’s camp did not culminate in a deal, questions now surface about the Bengals’ plans for shoring up their defense as they progress deeper into the season. The inability to lock in Howard leaves Cincinnati still seeking solutions to stabilize their faltering defensive strategy.
Season Outlook
With only a handful of games remaining, Cincinnati must quickly find ways to iron out their defensive vulnerabilities. Next on their schedule is a crucial game against the Los Angeles Chargers in Week 11. This matchup could serve as an opportunity for the Bengals to test other potential defensive strategies before heading into a well-timed bye week. The break could provide much-needed respite and the chance for reflection on their current tactics as they prepare for the final stretch of the season.
For now, the Bengals continue to search for viable players who can bring immediate improvement to their backfield, while the possibility of future discussions with Howard or other free agents remains open. As the season unfolds, Cincinnati’s management knows that swift and decisive action might be the key to reviving their playoff hopes and building momentum in the coming weeks.