Cowboys Urged to Replace Starter With Former $90 Million Pro Bowl Star

Rumors continue to swirl as to whether the Dallas Cowboys will be able to re-sign five-time Pro Bowl cornerback Stephon Gilmore. Dallas may need to explore alternative options just in case the team does not meet Gilmore’s asking price.

Bleacher Report’s Kristopher Knox labeled former Miami Dolphins corner Xavien Howard as a potential replacement option for Gilmore. Earlier this offseason, the Dolphins released Howard who had a five-year, $90 million deal that was slated to run through the 2026 season. The four-time Pro Bowler is still searching for a new home following his release.

“Bringing back 2023 trade acquisition Stephon Gilmore could be an option,” Knox wrote in a May 6, 2024 story titled, “Free Agents Cowboys Should Pursue After 2024 NFL Draft.” “Gilmore was a very solid starter for Dallas in 2023, though that fact could put his price point out of the Cowboys’ range.

“According to Michael Gehlken of the Dallas Morning News, there is ‘nothing imminent’ on a potential Cowboys-Gilmore reunion. Instead, the Cowboys should kick the proverbial tires on four-time Pro Bowler Xavien Howard,” Knox added.

“A foot injury hampered his 2023 campaign, but the 30-year-old was widely considered one of the league’s premier pass defenders before that. And Howard might be able to take a budget-friendly deal if it means making a deep playoff run.”