DETROIT, MI – The Detroit Lions have made a major move to solidify their defense, signing gour-time Pro Bowl cornerback Xavien Howard to a one-year, $10 million dollars contract with performance incentives. The former Miami Dolphins standout brings elite ball-hawking skills and veteran leadership to a Lions secondary looking to take the next step.
Key Details of the Signing
– Contract:1 year, $10 million (up to $12 million with incentives).
– Role Expected: Immediate starting outside CB opposite **Carlton Davis, pushing **Emmanuel Moseley** to nickel/depth duty.
– Reason for Signing:The Lions needed a proven shutdown presence after ranking **25th in pass defense (2024)**.
Why Howard Fits the Lions
– Elite Playmaking Ability – Howard, 31, has 29 career INTs (led NFL in 2020 & 2021).
– Physical Press Coverage– At 6’1”, 200 lbs, he matches up well against NFC North WRs like **Justin Jefferson and DJ Moore**.
– Winning Mentality– Brings playoff experience (10 career postseason games) to a young Lions defense.
Reactions
– **GM Brad Holmes:** *”Xavien is a game-changer. His instincts and ball skills will elevate our entire defense.”*
– **DC Aaron Glenn:** *”He’s the type of corner who can erase a team’s No. 1 receiver. That’s invaluable.”*
– **Howard’s Statement:** *”I’m here to win. Detroit’s building something special, and I want to help finish the job.”*
What This Means for Detroit
– **Upgraded Secondary:** Howard-Davis forms one of the NFL’s most physical CB duos.
– Super Bowl Push:A clear “win-now” move for a team that reached the **2024 NFC Championship**.
– Draft Flexibility:*Likely shifts Detroit’s draft focus in Round 1.
Howard will join voluntary workouts next week, with fans eager to see him in Honolulu blue.
