Former Dolphins star predicted to sign with NFC contender ahead of playoffs

The Miami Dolphins are in the midst of climbing back into the AFC playoff race. They'll be doing so without a familiar face for the first time since 2015. Xavien Howard, the former Dolphins cornerback from 2016-2023, has been trying to sign with a team before seasons' end.

The four-time Pro Bowler and 2020 First Team All-Pro member strung together four straight incredible seasons with the Dolphins before being cut in March. Howard was having a solid year in 2023, totaling 45 tackles and 12 passes defended while allowing just one touchdown in coverage. A foot injury caused Howard to miss the final four games of last season, putting an end to his Dolphins career.

He had a workout with the Cincinnati Bengals last week, but ultimately didn't end up signing. However, Bleacher Report believes that the San Francisco 49ers is the perfect landing spot for Howard this season.

San Francisco should, however, kick the tires on cornerback Xavien Howard. The 31-year-old started 13 games for Miami last season and recently had a workout with the Bengals—though he ultimately didn't sign. The 49ers' pass defense has been more good than great this season, and adding experienced cornerback depth ahead of the playoff push would be far from a bad idea.

Like the Dolphins, the 49ers are also on the outside looking in for the postseason currently. Adding the NFL's interceptions leader from 2018 and 2020 wouldn't be a bad idea for San Francisco.