Report: Xavien Howard ‘strongly considering’ reporting for training camp Tuesday

With Week 1 of the 2021 NFL season just weeks away, there has been some uncertainly surrounding Miami Dolphins cornerback Xavien Howard.

However, it’s looking more likely that he will participate in the Miami Dolphins’ training camp, which is slated to start on Tuesday.

“Dolphins cornerback Xavien Howard, who did not participate in the team’s offseason program because he wants more money, has strongly been considering reporting for the start of training camp on Tuesday, according to an associate,” wrote Barry Jackson and Armando Salguero of the Miami Herald.

“Though the Dolphins have not given him a raise, he would face a $50,000 daily fine if he holds out of training camp. The source said he remains unhappy about his contract but also realizes that he doesn’t ultimately control the situation because he has four years remaining on a five-year, $75.5 million extension signed in May 2021.

“Howard has been training hard with the intention of playing this season. His agent, David Canter, declined to say if he will report to training camp.”

Howard is a star in the NFL, and one of the game’s best corners. He led the league in interceptions and passes defended last season en route to his second career trip to the Pro Bowl.

Miami is still reportedly interested in trading for Houston Texans star quarterback Deshaun Watson, and if such a trade happens, Howard could be jettisoned as a result. Watson is currently facing numerous sexual assault allegations.

The Dolphins are reportedly still high on quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, who is about to enter his second season. However, an opportunity to acquire an elite quarterback such as Watson is one the team might not pass on.