After moving a lot of talent about in 2024, the Miami Dolphins now have two free agents at the top of the list of available veteran players.
Cornerback Xavien Howard and center Connor Williams were named first and second, respectively, by ESPN staff writer Matt Bowen on March 19 in his ranking of the “best remaining” free agents.
For the former, Bowen explained, “Howard was officially released at the start of the league year by the Dolphins.” Teams will be interested in him because of his perimeter coverage skills and on-ball performance. With 29 interceptions over the course of eight seasons, Howard is capable of improving a weak secondary.
“A torn ACL suffered in December drops Williams here, but he was stellar for the Dolphins with a 93.9% pass block win rate prior to the injury,” Bowen reasoned for Williams. He compensates for his lack of strength and anchoring ability by using his mobility to act as a positional blocker. Williams is an excellent space player who can cut off opponents by establishing favorable angles.
The final three players in Bowen’s top five remaining free agent class were offensive tackle Mekhi Becton, safety Justin Simmons, and edge rusher Jadeveon Clowney.
CB Xavien Howard, a former Dolphin, would “love” to play for the Hometown Texans.
Houston native Howard has expressed interest in signing a free agent contract with his home team.
In an interview with former Miami Heat players Mike Miller and Udonis Haslem for “The OGs Podcast,” Howard stated that he “would love to” join with the Houston Texans.
Howard echoed, “Especially back at home, the crib.” Although I wouldn’t say I’ve always supported the Houston Texans, I have been one during the offseason. It’s been tattooed on me. Even the Texans and Houston Rockets emblems were tattooed on me.
The seasoned CB even hinted that he may accept less money in exchange for moving to Texas.
Howard declared, “I’d rather take a pay cut to go to a team that’s going to go further in the playoffs.” “I have my money and other belongings.” I get right to the issue, asking, “How much money really need?” Trying to win a Super Bowl is always my goal. Let your desire to win a Super Bowl triumph over financial considerations.
“Some people win a Super Bowl, and some people get paid.” A few people engage in both. You’re distinct; you do both,” Howard said in closing. “I want to be different,” I continue. Now, I want to win the Super Bowl. I am now anticipating [a Super Bowl] because I have already been compensated.
Houston has a solid base thanks to the offensive (C.J. Stroud) and defensive (Will Anderson) rookies of the year in 2023. They have subsequently strengthened this base with summer signings like as Danielle Hunter and Joe Mixon. Many believe they could be a dark horse contender for the crown in the upcoming season.
There’s No Chance Connor Williams Will Sign Anytime Soon
Williams, a free agent blocker, doesn’t seem likely to sign anytime soon.
Williams suffered an ACL tear that was “pretty significant” on March 18, according to information provided by his player agent Drew Rosenhaus to Miami news station WSVN.
Rosenhaus reaffirmed to host Josh Moser, “It was a significant knee injury, without getting into his private business.” He is therefore taking his time getting well. His current intention, in my opinion, is not to sign with the Dolphins or any other team.
Williams is “focused on his medical situation — getting healthy — and then see where he stands at that point,” the agent continued. Thus, it seems unlikely that Connor Williams will sign a contract with an NFL team anytime soon.
The veteran center does not appear to be considering retirement at this time, but it is unclear when he will be prepared to play again.
