Xavien Howard has emerged as one of the best cornerbacks in the league in his third NFL season, and the Miami Dolphins may have to try to beat the New England Patriots without him on Sunday.
After Howard missed practice on Wednesday, Dolphins head coach Adam Gase described him as “week-to-week” with a knee injury and would only say that he is hopeful Howard will play again this season.
Adam Gase says Xavien Howard has a bad knee. Team won't know if he can play until end of the week. Doesn't sound good.
— Armando Salguero (@ArmandoSalguero) December 5, 2018
Adam Gase talking as if he doesn't think Xavien Howard will be playing on Sunday.
"Other guys got to step up," Gase said.
— Armando Salguero (@ArmandoSalguero) December 5, 2018
Adam Gase on Xavien Howard: "I think he'll be back at some point this season."
— Armando Salguero (@ArmandoSalguero) December 5, 2018
Not having Howard against Tom Brady and the Patriots would be a massive problem for the Dolphins, who are 6-6 and trying to stay alive in the AFC playoff hunt. The former Baylor star had two interceptions for the second week in a row in Sunday’s win over the Buffalo Bills, bringing his total to an NFL-leading seven on the season. Miami has historically been a tough place for Brady to play, but it would be a lot easier if Howard is unable to suit up.
