Bengals' Defensive Woes Continue as Xavien Howard Stays Unavailable
In an NFL season marked by defensive challenges, the Cincinnati Bengals' recent attempt to bolster their secondary met another setback. Prominent free agent cornerback Xavien Howard, a four-time Pro Bowler, recently visited Cincinnati but left without reaching an agreement with the team. This development leaves the Bengals with lingering questions about the effectiveness of their defense as they continue to grapple with a disappointing season record.
Howard, released by the Miami Dolphins earlier this year, remains one of the top unsigned talents in the league. Known for his remarkable playmaking ability, Howard has twice led the NFL in interceptions. In 2020, he recorded an impressive 10 interceptions, the highest of his career, and 20 deflections. Despite his proven track record, Howard is currently without a team as the 2024 NFL season rolls into its crucial stages.
Cincinnati's defensive unit, particularly the cornerback position, has been under heavy scrutiny. The Bengals find themselves ranked seventh in the NFL for the most points allowed per game, giving up an average of 26.2 points per contest. This defensive frailty was highlighted in their Week 10 loss to the Baltimore Ravens, a performance that underscored their struggles against high-powered offenses.
Both starting cornerbacks, Cam Taylor-Britt and Josh Newton, have faced challenges in shutting down opposing wide receivers, exacerbating the Bengals' defensive issues. The matchup against the Ravens further exposed these vulnerabilities, bringing into sharp focus the need for experienced and reliable talent in their secondary.
The Bengals, holding a 4-6 record, are in search of any reinforcements that can help reverse their defensive fortunes. However, securing Howard would have potentially provided a significant boost. Adding a player with Howard's credentials and experience could have been transformative for a defense in need of leadership and playmaking ability.
Despite the ongoing negotiations, Howard is staying prepared and ready, continuing his training independently. This discipline and commitment to staying in top form indicate that he could be a valuable asset for any team willing to meet his terms. For now, the Bengals will need to look elsewhere for solutions to their defensive struggles, as they prepare to face the Los Angeles Chargers in Week 11 before taking a week off.
The upcoming game against the Chargers presents another stern test for this beleaguered defense. With their bye week following the Week 11 matchup, the Bengals will have a brief respite to regroup and reassess their strategy for the remainder of the season. It will be a critical time for the coaching staff to make adjustments and seek alternatives that could shore up their defensive lines.
While the door remains open for future negotiations, for now, the Bengals will need to work with their current roster as they navigate a challenging NFL landscape. As the search for defensive fortification continues, Bengals fans remain hopeful that their team will find the right answers to cure their defensive ills and finish the season on a stronger note.