Miami Dolphins week one defensive power rankings

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Aug 4, 2021; Miami Gardens, FL, USA; Miami Dolphins cornerback Xavien Howard (25) walks onto the field during training camp at Baptist Health Training Complex. Mandatory Credit: Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports /

Scouting Report. Baylor. 1. 59. Pick Analysis. CB. XavienHoward. player

After a steller 10-interception All-Pro defense season, there were question marks as to what would happen with Howard come 2021. As expected, he wanted to work on his deal and earn the money he deserved. Now that it’s been solved, X can go back to focusing on the football field.

To say Howard and Jones should be classified together like Ogbah and Phillips isn’t wrong, but Howard’s impact alone separates him from his counterpart. In the traditional New England style defense, the top corner will likely shadow the top wideout, Howard proved he was more than capable last year when he took the field.

In 2020, the Dolphins defense took major strides and was really the main reason the team won 10-games last season. The defense ranked towards the top in multiple defensive stats, such as turnovers, thanks in large part to Howard’s monster season.

Now in 2021, where the defense is expected to take another step this season, Howard may not be able to have another double-digit interception season, but he should once again rank amongst the league leaders. With an improved pass rush, he should find himself in some easier positions.

It’s good to have Howard officially locked in for the Dolphins, and fans should be glad to not see the team take on the season without an elite cornerback.

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