The Detroit Lions have made significant moves to strengthen their cornerback position this offseason. However, Bleacher Report’s Alex Ballentine recently suggested on June 4th that the Lions could further enhance their roster by signing former All-Pro Xavien Howard.
Ballentine highlighted the Lions as one of the top three potential destinations for Howard, emphasizing how his addition could fortify the team’s cornerback depth and potentially propel them towards the NFC Championship Game.
This isn’t the first time Bleacher Report has mentioned the Lions as a potential destination for Howard this offseason. BR’s Gary Davenport suggested Howard as a Cameron Sutton replacement on March 24.
CBS Sports’ Garrett Podell also named the Lions as a landing spot for Howard before free agency even began.
Since Podell’s suggestion, Detroit has made four significant cornerback additions. Howard also turns 31 on July 4, so the best part of his career is likely behind him.
But with the Lions expected to compete for the Super Bowl, it shouldn’t be a surprise if the team goes “all in.” Adding Howard would be an “all in” kind of move.
Howard has led the NFL in interceptions twice, including most recently in 2020. He also had a league-high 20 pass defenses that season.
Why the Lions Could Be Interested in CB Xavien Howard
Howard, who enjoyed three consecutive Pro Bowl selections and earned first-team All-Pro honors in 2020, was released by the Miami Dolphins earlier this offseason to free up cap space. Despite entering his 31st year, Howard’s impressive track record, including leading the NFL in interceptions twice, makes him an attractive option for teams seeking defensive firepower.
While the Lions have already made several notable additions to their cornerback corps, including Carlton Davis via trade and signings like Amik Robertson, Terrion Arnold, and Ennis Rakestraw through the NFL draft, the allure of acquiring a talent like Howard remains strong. However, the performance of rookies Arnold and Rakestraw during minicamp and training camp may influence the Lions’ decision-making process, as the team weighs the need for veteran experience against the potential development of younger players.
