Xavien Howard is set for a comeback after a year out of the NFL, with his ears open and ready to hear offers. He’s not saying no to his old stomping grounds, the Miami Dolphins, either.

On the Dive Bar Podcast, Howard shared, “Heading into 2025, we’re just waiting for that call. I’m open to playing for anyone.

It’s their move now. I’m still healthy and putting in the work.”

After spending 2024 off the field due to his release from the Dolphins—a decision driven largely by salary cap considerations—Howard is now steering his own ship. The foot injury that contributed to his absence was a Lisfranc issue, something Howard has fully dealt with.

He worked out with the Cincinnati Bengals and Dallas Cowboys, but passing on signing with either when injury waivers were proposed was his choice. Despite parting ways with Miami, Howard stresses all is amicable with GM Chris Grier: “We haven’t talked, but Grier made it clear I should keep in touch.

He never reached out, and neither did I. My agent’s been quiet on that front, too.”

A curious moment on the podcast saw a call interrupting Howard, leading to speculation whether it was Grier. Laughingly, Howard debunked that theory and revealed a neighborly connection: “Grier stays around the corner from me! We live in the same neighborhood.”

Reflecting on his days in Miami, Howard fondly recalls his experience playing under different coaches. Interestingly, of all the coaches—Adam Gase, Brian Flores, and Mike McDaniel—it was Brian Flores’ style that resonated the most with Howard.

“Flores knew how to push players. We’re in a tough sport, and you have to be resilient,” Howard said.

He praised Flores’ consistency and fairness: “He held everyone to the same standard. Even if you did well, he didn’t shower you with praise, and I respected that.”

As the Dolphins chart their course for 2025, there’s an ongoing conversation about who will stand alongside Jalen Ramsey in the secondary. With the recent release of Kendall Fuller on February 14, eyes naturally turn to third-year pro Cam Smith.

Howard had plenty to say about Smith, who was a rookie during Howard’s stint with the Dolphins in 2023. “I like Cam’s game,” Howard commented.

“Being benched isn’t ideal; you miss out on real-time learning, which is critical for a cornerback.”

When reflecting on standout moments with the Dolphins, one might assume Howard would spotlight his numerous interceptions or memorable plays against iconic quarterbacks like Tom Brady. Yet, his favorite memory happened from the sidelines during the “Miami Miracle” in his rookie year.

Howard explained this choice with an air of nostalgia: “That moment was special because it was less about pressure and more about fun and bonding. Under coach Adam Gase, as a young player, it was about camaraderie.”

From tallying impressive career stats—331 tackles, 95 pass breakups, and 29 interceptions—to cherishing a cherished team moment, Howard’s journey in the NFL paints a picture of resilience, camaraderie, and readiness for the next chapter.