Xavien Howard NFL Draft 2016: Scouting Report, Grade for Dolphins Rookie

POSITIVES

Big, physical and fast, Xavien Howard fits the profile of a starting outside cornerback in the NFL.

With nine interceptions and 23 pass breakups over the last two seasons, Howard has established himself as a ball hawk at corner. He tracks the ball well over his shoulder when running in-phase and has the closing speed to seal the deal.

When the ball goes up, Howard becomes a receiver and will leave his feet to make a play at the high point. Given his 38 ½-inch vertical jump, Howard can be effective above the field.

Howard impresses with timing and burst when asked to plant and drive to play the ball in front of his face. He comes downhill to the ball in a hurry and has the size to force runners back to the middle of the field in the run game.

There aren’t many cornerbacks in this class with size, speed and ball skills, which makes Howard one of the more sought-after players in the group.

NEGATIVES

Howard’s technique as a cornerback doesn’t yet match his physical abilities. On tape he was too often caught flat-footed and struggling to keep up with receivers despite having 4.4 speed. When Howard is caught in the mud, he goes to his hands and will grab and hold receivers at the top of their stem instead of flipping his hips to run.

A willing tackler, Howard can be erratic when asked to break down smaller backs or receivers. He missed five tackles in 2015 and nine in 2014. NFL teams will live with the aggressive, productive tackles he brings to the table and hope to work on the whiffs.

A gambler in coverage, Howard must learn patience and to not consistently go for the big play on a double move or breaking route. His timing is good, but NFL teams will scheme against his aggression. He trusts his eyes and his hands, which is a good thing, but Howard’s over-anxious style gets him in trouble.

COMBINE RESULTS

Height: 6'0"

Weight: 201 lbs.

40 Time: 4.41s

3-Cone: 6.94s

Short Shuttle: 4.15s

PRO COMPARISON: Stephon Gilmore, Buffalo Bills
FINAL GRADE: 6.60/9.00 (Round 2—Future Starter)