Miami Dolphins: Ranking the team’s ‘Olympic medal’ players

1. Gold Medal: Xavien Howard, CB

The defensive solidity of the Miami Dolphins was the defining factor of their 2020 season. If they continue their fine displays the offense will only need to minimally improve for the franchise to find success. Thankfully, the team will be confident in their best defensive players to set the tone. Cornerback Xavien Howard will make sure his teammates live up to his standard.

Howard had a fantastic season for the Miami Dolphins in 2020. He tied the franchise record for interceptions in a season, making 10 picks. He has the athleticism and change of direction to dominate any matchup, and his tactical knowledge identifying opposition routes is second to none. In fact, since he made his first in 2017, Howard has been the best interceptor in the NFL totaling 22 picks.

Passing schemes absolutely have to take him into account when planning for the Dolphins. He helped contribute to the franchises’ excellent plus minus points total of +66 in the 2020 season, their best mark since 2009.

Whilst he has the athleticism to make picks and big plays, Howard is also a formidable opponent in just his coverage numbers. Howard had a passer rating of 53.0 through the 2020 season, which is once again a league best among corners with targeted at least 40 times.

With numbers like these, it is no surprise that Xavien Howard is amongst the league’s most elite man defenders. He is the gold standard for his teammates and opposing players, and he is recognized here as his team’s “gold medalist”.