Xavien Howard, Dolphins agree to five-year contract; includes most guaranteed money for CB in NFL history

What a difference a year makes. Last summer, Dolphins cornerback Xavien Howard requested a trade after frustrations grew over his contract situation. Miami was able rework his contract shortly after his trade request, making Howard the league’s highest-paid cornerback for the 2021 season. On Friday, the two sides came to terms on a restructured five-year contract that includes nearly $51,691,177 in new money, according to Howard’s agent. 

The deal includes the most guaranteed money for a cornerback in NFL history. A two-time Pro Bowler, Howard had three years and $39.3 million remaining on his previous contract.

The 36th overall pick in the 2016 NFL Draft, Howard has been a Pro Bowler three of the past four years. He’s led the NFL in interceptions twice, which included his career-high of 10 picks in 2020. He also led the NFL with 20 passes defensed that season while helping Miami post its best season since his rookie campaign. Howard made the Pro Bowl again last season after tallying five interceptions, 16 passes defensed, two forced fumbles, two fumble recoveries and two defensive touchdowns. 

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