Xavien Howard’s journey to become a professional footballer was uncommon. Although he is now a free agent, Howard spent eleven seasons with the Miami Dolphins before becoming the highest paid CB in the league. With that money, the cornerback fulfilled his dream and accomplished his promise to his mother.

The 30-year-old was drafted in the second round of the 2016 NFL draft by Miami. However, through years of hard work, and dedication, Howard earned a contract extension in 2019 worth $76.5 million for five years – making his parents proud.

Who are Xavien Howard’s parents?

Born on July 4, 1993 and raised up in the Fifth Ward area of ​​Houston, Texas, Xavien Howard holds American nationality. His parents, mother Luckcher Howard and father Freddy Arroial, played an integral role in the journey and success of their second child of seven kids. However, not much is known about them, as Howard chooses to keep his personal life private.

When Howard signed his contract extension with the Phins in 2019, he purchased a beautiful new home for his mother. He announced it on his social media account. The caption read, “Something I promised my mother, ever since I was a young kid. Finally thru all the obstacles we had overcome. A dream can go a long way with faith and hard work. Mama I love you so much enjoy your new house.” Howard grew up in a poverty-stricken household, sharing a roof with his other siblings.

Howard’s journey from a passionate footballer to a seasoned footballer is quite inspiring. When the athlete was in middle school, he witnessed a man getting shot while playing basketball near his home. The shooter saw Howard and told him to go inside. Howard was deeply traumatized by this experience and was grateful he wasn’t harmed.

He told his mother, who then sent him to stay with his grandmother for two months for safety. This incident made Howard decide to change his life. He started focusing seriously on sports, determined to give his family a better lifestyle. Howard also has made a ritual to visit his old neighborhood to remind himself of what he overcame.

According to the reports, apart from his parents and siblings, he is in a relationship with Keeli Long, and is a proud dad of three children. He often shares snaps of his children on his official social media accounts. Although Howard is now a free agent, his football journey is still quite notable.

How was Xavien Howard’s football career?

Xavien Howard discovered his passion for football early and played high school football with William Jackson III, attracting scout attention. This led him to Baylor University, where he excelled, making 98 tackles, 10 INTs and a touchdown. Eventually he was declared for the NFL draft before his senior year, and the Phins picked him 38th overall in the second round.

They gave him a $2.65 million signing bonus. Later, the cornerback proved his worth, ranking 12th among defensive cornerbacks at the NFL combine. However, he underwent surgery in the preseason. But later returned to play the season opener against the Seahawks. His defensive skills and key interceptions shone through during his time with the Dolphins.

In 2018, he made his first Pro Bowl and second team All Pro. Eventually, in week 3 of the 2020 season, Howard recorded his first interception against the Jaguars. In addition to it, the following year in January, he was named first team All-Pro. Alas, he met an injury in 2023 and exited for a few games. Howard then made a comeback, when the team was deciding on his exit. Now that he is a free agent, it doesn’t mean his source of income is restricted.

Beyond football, Howard is savvy with his money, investing in ventures like a personal appeal store, Playmaker, and an Italian ice cream chain, Iccy Xpress. Unlike many players who squander their earnings, Howard appears focused on growing his net worth for the future. A reminder that he aims to provide the best living standards for his family. During his journey, as evident from numerous sources, Howard’s parents played a crucial role in his rise in the NFL arena.