Great X-pectations: The Miami Dolphins Open 2021 Training Camp

By: Jason Sarney

As head coach of the Miami Dolphins Brian Flores said, through a spotty internet live stream on Twitter Tuesday morning, “It’s like the first day back at school.”  Of course, he is talking about check-in day for 2021's training camp in a brand-new facility with brand new X-pectations. 

Speaking of X, elite cornerback Xavien Howard, was in fact in the building this morning and was carrying cleats. Yet, not necessarily looking as happy as most millionaires entering work on a Tuesday morning.  Giving him the benefit of the doubt, it was probably before any dose of caffeine.

With rumors swirling of trades and or holdouts it was stated by representation that Howard would not miss training camp, so at least that camp is holding their word. 

Transition to holding, which is something Howard rarely does, it seems general manager Chris Grier is holding his star cornerback like a pair of top two Aces in a hand of Texas Hold'em. I know what you're thinking, and no this is not a reference to the Dallas Cowboys. 

Grier has shown a steady hand through his tenure as the lone wolf in charge of the Miami front office, unlike prior seasons in the past where there were other drivers steering the ship. While not perfect and completely fallible like any other general manager, he has at least shown patterns and tendencies. However, like any good card sharp, he adjusts to the game, the market, and the competition masterfully. 

Brian Flores seemed genuinely pleased that Howard arrived. "We're excited to have him, "I'm excited to have him." I don't care what any may say, Brian Flores would very much prefer Howard in his defensive backfield. Whatever happens in the next few weeks contractually is still anybody's guess, but what my guess is would be the following:

Xavien Howard will dress Week 1 against the New England Patriots for the Miami Dolphins.

There will be more training camp coverage to come on PhinManiacs.com as we gear up for the 2021 season, which is something we all have been sorely craving. 

Let us wait no more….it is here. 

And so is Xavien Howard.

Dolphins Live: Coach Flores meets with the media ahead of Training Camp. https://t.co/933jXPZ5Dy

— Miami Dolphins (@MiamiDolphins) July 27, 2021