Miami Dolphins cornerback Xavien Howard (25) against the Las Vegas Raiders at Allegiant Stadium. Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

Xavien Howard officially requests trade from Dolphins: 'I am just here so I don't get fined'

By Erin Walsh | Last updated 7/28/21

Miami Dolphins Pro Bowl cornerback Xavien Howard announced in a statement Tuesday night that he has requested a trade from the franchise, saying he doesn't feel valued or respected by the club.

Howard reported to training camp Tuesday but has been frustrated throughout the offseason that Miami would not adjust his contract.

Xavien Howard: pic.twitter.com/CdeL70tUqh
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) July 28, 2021

The 28-year-old signed a five-year, $75 million deal that, at the time, made him the highest-paid cornerback in the NFL. However, he is due $12 million in non-guaranteed money in 2021 while coming off his best season in the league in 2020.

Howard's contract now ranks sixth among cornerbacks, behind Jalen Ramsey ($20 million AAV), Marlon Humphrey ($19.5 million AAV), Tre'Davious White ($17.25 million AAV), Darius Slay ($16.6 million AAV) and teammate Byron Jones ($16.5 million AAV).

Howard and his agent never requested a new deal but instead offered solutions such as more guaranteed money. The Dolphins declined those pitches, the Baylor product said.

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.

As for where Howard might end up, ESPN's Jeremy Fowler reported Sunday on "SportsCenter" that many people in the NFL believe the Houston Texans could be a potential home for the two-time Pro Bowler. This is because Texans quarterback Deshaun Watson also requested a trade and would reportedly accept a move to Miami.

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