According to reports, three top contenders are emerging to secure the signature of former Dolphins superstar cornerback Xavien Howard.

Recent reports suggest that the Miami Dolphins intend to release Howard after June 1, a move that would free up $18.5 million in cap space. Once available, Howard is expected to draw interest from a trio of up-and-coming teams: the Indianapolis Colts, Houston Texans, and Detroit Lions.

Sports Illustrated, via ML Football, identified these franchises as potential landing spots for the 30-year-old cornerback. ESPN's D.J. Bien-Aime also indicated that Howard has a preference for joining the Texans, given his roots in Houston where he grew up and attended high school.

Howard has established himself as one of the NFL's premier cornerbacks since his breakout sophomore season in 2017. With four Pro Bowl selections under his belt, he boasts impressive stats including 29 interceptions, 95 pass breakups, and four forced fumbles across 100 career games.

In the 2023 season, Howard contributed one interception and 12 pass defenses in 13 games, aiding the Dolphins in achieving their fourth consecutive winning season and a second consecutive playoff appearance. However, their postseason run ended with a Wild Card Round loss to the eventual Super Bowl champions, the Kansas City Chiefs.

With Howard's track record and impressive interception totals, demand for his services is expected to be high in free agency, making him a highly coveted target for teams looking to bolster their secondary.