Dolphins HC Brian Flores: There's a way to work things out with Xavien Howard

Miami Dolphins Pro Bowl cornerback Xavien Howard wants a trade. However, head coach Brian Flores believes there's a way for the two sides to find some common ground.

During a Wednesday appearance on WQAM, Flores said the plan is to continue having discussions with Howard and his representation and that he believes those conversations can lead to a solution for both parties. 

"There's a way," Flores said, via Barry Jackson of the Miami Herald. "I think we just continue to have discussions with him, his representation, and keep the lines of communication open, continue having dialogue and, hopefully, work something out. At the same time, we've got 90, 89 other guys that we'll be working with, to include X. Try to build this team and improve on a day-to-day basis, build team chemistry. That's where most of our focus is. The X thing is something we're having discussions about, as well."

Howard issued a statement Tuesday saying he reported to training camp to avoid being fined and that the Dolphins have "refused everything we proposed" to adjust his current contract. The 28-year-old added that he does not feel "valued or respected" by the team. 

The two-time Pro Bowler signed a five-year, $75 million deal in 2019 that, at the time, made him the highest-paid cornerback in the NFL. However, several other players at the position are now making more than him, including teammate Byron Jones, who makes about $16.5 million per year. 

Miami selected Howard 38th overall in the 2016 NFL Draft. He's recorded 55 pass deflections and 22 interceptions during his five-year career, which includes two Pro Bowl nods and a First Team All-Pro selection in 2020.