The Colts, facing a surge of injuries among their cornerbacks, are bringing in experienced player Xavien Howard as a possible fix, aspiring for him to regain some of his previous high-level skill despite not playing last year.
The signing of Howard was revealed by his representative, David Canter.
Howard’s new contract will place him on an active roster for the first time after the Miami Dolphins released the four-time Pro Bowler and 2020 All-Pro in February 2024. Despite facing several injuries in recent years, Howard impressed during an in-person workout with the Colts, with a representative from the team noting his performance as “exceptional.”
Colts’ defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo has a significant background with Howard, having worked as the Dolphins’ defensive backs coach during Howard’s initial two years with the franchise, 2016-2017.
The Indianapolis team is dealing with four significant injuries at the cornerback position, which includes seasoned slot corner Kenny Moore II; Jaylon Jones, who was a starter for 17 games last year; and JuJu Brents, a second-round selection in 2023. Additionally, rookie Justin Walley, a third-round draft choice expected to serve as the No. 3 cornerback, suffered an ACL tear two weeks ago and will be out for the remainder of the season.
If Howard can deliver on his potential, he aligns well with the Colts’ new aggressive defensive strategy. He has experience with the press-man coverage that Anarumo uses effectively, having achieved notable success in this area. In 2020, Howard topped the NFL with 10 interceptions. In 2018, he also led the league with seven interceptions.
Last year, Howard was in the spotlight when a lawsuit accused him of sending a sexually explicit image of a teenage boy’s mother to the boy. This claim was brought forward by a lawyer representing another woman who alleged that Howard had shared recordings of their intimate encounters.
Howard did not face any criminal charges.
