Bengals Seek Solutions as Defensive Woes Continue
The Cincinnati Bengals continue to grapple with defensive challenges this NFL season, a struggle highlighted by their recent inability to secure veteran cornerback Xavien Howard. Following his release by the Miami Dolphins earlier this year, Howard remains a high-profile free agent, known for his stellar performances as a four-time Pro Bowler and NFL interceptions leader during his time in Miami from 2016 to 2023.
Despite hosting Howard for a visit, the Bengals were unable to reach an agreement with the seasoned cornerback. This remains a significant missed opportunity for a team currently looking to shore up its defense. The Bengals' defensive unit faces intense scrutiny, especially after a disappointing loss to the Baltimore Ravens in Week 10. Reflecting this turmoil, Cincinnati ranks seventh in the league for the most points allowed per game, averaging 26.2 points.
Contributing to the Bengals’ defensive struggles are starting cornerbacks Cam Taylor-Britt and Josh Newton. Their performance has not met expectations, further underscoring the urgent need for reinforcement in their defensive lineup. The Bengals’ interest in Howard was no surprise given his track record. In 2020, Howard led the league with an impressive 10 interceptions and 20 deflections. Despite his age, his expertise could have provided the defense with much-needed experience and skill, qualities the current lineup is arguably short of.
As the Bengals prepare to face the Los Angeles Chargers in Week 11, their prospects are uncertain. With a current record of 4-6, the team sits precariously in their division. The upcoming game is critical, not least because a bye week follows, providing a valuable opportunity for the team to reassess and recalibrate their strategies. A win against the Chargers could bolster morale and provide some breathing room, though it’s clear that more than a single victory is needed to right their ship.
Meanwhile, Howard continues to train independently, maintaining his readiness as he weighs his options. His decision to remain unsigned suggests he’s waiting for the right fit, both competitively and contractually, before making a commitment. For Cincinnati, this leaves a lingering question mark in their defensive plans—a need that will remain until they can find a viable solution, either by enticing another free agent or improving the performance of their current players.
In summary, while the Bengal’s efforts to engage Howard were noteworthy, the failure to secure his services underscores persistent challenges within the organization. As the team looks to the remainder of the season, bolstering their defense remains a priority if they hope to turn their current trajectory around.