Las Vegas Raiders: 3 Miami Dolphins to Worry About in Week 3

Sep 23, 2018; Miami Gardens, FL, USA; Miami Dolphins cornerback Xavien Howard (25) intercepts a pass intended for Oakland Raiders wide receiver Martavis Bryant (12) in the end zone in the quarter at Hard Rock Stadium. The Dolphins defeated the Raiders 28-20. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 23, 2018; Miami Gardens, FL, USA; Miami Dolphins cornerback Xavien Howard (25) intercepts a pass intended for Oakland Raiders wide receiver Martavis Bryant (12) in the end zone in the quarter at Hard Rock Stadium. The Dolphins defeated the Raiders 28-20. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
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Dec 6, 2020; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Miami Dolphins cornerback Xavien Howard (25) celebrates after intercepting the pass intended for Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Tyler Boyd (83) during the first half at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports

Las Vegas Raiders: 3 Miami Dolphins to Worry About in Week 3

Xavien Howard, Cornerback

The Dolphins made cornerback Byron Jones the richest cornerback in NFL history last season with a five-year $82million contract. But on the contrary, the best cornerback for this team is without a doubt, Xavien Howard.

His 2020 All-Pro season is proof of this, and his stellar play has carried over into this season. Howard is the only player thus far to have an interception, forced fumble, and a fumble recovery. This speaks volumes of the versatility and ball-hawking ability of the 28-year-old Howard.

In the prime of his career, and not slowing down the slightest, Howard is by far the most dangerous player on the Dolphins. He can lineup with any receiver due to his above-average speed and long 6’1 frame, which makes life difficult for all opposing receivers.

Howard has a knack for knowing where the ball is at all times, and despite the fact quarterback Derek Carr has shredded two imposing defenses so far, Howard can be an issue on his own, and will be the toughest corner the Raiders have faced so far.

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