Baltimore Ravens Free Agency: Sign Former Pro Bowl CB

The Baltimore Ravens have a number of holes to fill on the defensive side of the ball, but cornerback might be the biggest need.

By Timm Hamm

Sep 17, 2023; Foxborough, Massachusetts, USA; Miami Dolphins cornerback Xavien Howard (25)
Sep 17, 2023; Foxborough, Massachusetts, USA; Miami Dolphins cornerback Xavien Howard (25) / Paul Rutherford-USA TODAY Sports

The Baltimore Ravens signed edge rusher Jadeveon Clowney last offseason to a one-year deal and became the former South Carolina products fifth team. Clowney proceeded to go out and have one of his better seasons on record - a borderline pro bowl year.

Sometimes it just takes a change of scenery for a player to have a resurgent season, and that could be the case of an available former All-Pro and Pro Bowl cornerback.

Sep 17, 2023; Foxborough, Massachusetts, USA; Miami Dolphins cornerback Xavien Howard (25)
Sep 17, 2023; Foxborough, Massachusetts, USA; Miami Dolphins cornerback Xavien Howard (25) / Paul Rutherford-USA TODAY Sports

Howard was released by the Miami Dolphins after eight seasons, and a 2023 where he showed signs of slowing down.

His best season came in 2020 when he tallied 10 interceptions, 20 passes defended, was a First Team All-Pro and named to the Pro Bowl, while finishing third in the AP Defensive Player of the Year voting.

The 30-year-old has registered just two interceptions, 12 passes defended, and 80 tackles over the past two seasons. Although making his last Pro Bowl in 2022, Howard's play has declined significantly.

But it's possible, just like Clowney, a change of scenery and a new voice in his head could be good for Howard. And the Ravens need bodies. And especially depth at corner and in the secondary.

A combination of Howard and Marlon Humphrey in the Ravens defensive secondary alongside the safety duo of Kyle Hamilton and Marcus Williams would be a huge advantage for new defensive coordinator Zach Orr who enters his first season with that role.