Miami Dolphins cornerback Xavien Howard left Sunday's showdown against the Baltimore Ravens with a foot injury, and was later ruled out for the game.
It's wasn't initially clear how he sustained the injury. He received medical attention on the sideline, then left the game on a cart without a shoe on his left foot in the first quarter.
Xavien Howard is being carted off in Baltimore. pic.twitter.com/0BpdS9DMSI
— NFL on CBS 🏈 (@NFLonCBS) December 31, 2023
A two-time All-Pro and three-time Pro Bowler, Howard is critical to Miami's defense. He's started 12 games this season with 12 passes defended, 45 tackles and an interception for a Dolphins defense that ranks third in the NFL.
His absence is a blow in a critical game with the AFC's No. 1 seed on the line. The Ravens would clinch the No. 1 seed with a win over Miami. The Dolphins would stay alive for the No. 1 seed and first-round playoff bye with a win.
Any extended absence would be a significant setback for the Dolphins with the postseason approaching. The Dolphins (11-4) have clinched a playoff berth for the second straight season.
