Report: Dolphins CB Howard has knee surgery

Miami Dolphins star cornerback Xavien Howard underwent arthroscopic surgery to repair the meniscus in his left knee, according to a published report. NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport reported that Howard had the procedure in which his meniscus was trimmed. Procedures of that nature typically do not require a lengthy recovery. Howard, who has been ruled out for Sunday's game against the New England Patriots, could return to action for the Dolphins' final three games of the season. The 25-year-old leads the NFL with seven interceptions this season, with four coming in his last two games. Howard's most-recent two-interception performance helped Miami post a 21-17 win over the Buffalo Bills. He received AFC Defensive Player of the Week honors for his efforts. Coach Adam Gase told reporters that Howard's knee injury was not severe despite deeming his status as week to week. "We think he'll be back at some point this season. If it's this week, next week, the week after that -- I don't know," Gase said. Nickel cornerback Bobby McCain will replace Howard against the Patriots. Howard, who also has 35 tackles this season, has collected 123 tackles, 11 interceptions and one sack in 35 career contests since being selected by the Dolphins in the second round of the 2016 NFL Draft.