Dolphins' Brian Flores reacts to Xavien Howard trade request

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Miami Dolphins tight end Cethan Carter (82) during practice at the new training complex at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Fl. on Thursday July 29, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins WR Sam Eguavoen catches the ball during practice at the new training complex at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens Florida on Wednesday, July 28, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa (1) claps wide receiver Albert Wilson (2) on the back as he walks past during training camp at the Dolphins training complex at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens on Wednesday, August 04, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins wide receiver Jaylen Waddle (17) during training camp at the Dolphins training complex at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens on Wednesday, August 04, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins #23 RB Gerrid Doaks goes through drills during practice at the new training complex at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens Florida on Wednesday, July 28, 2021.
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Quarterback Jacoby Brissett looks for a receiver during the Miami Dolphins practice, Saturday, July 31, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins corner back Byron Jones (24) tries to cover wide receiver Isaiah Ford (20) during practice at the Baptist Health Training Complex at Hard Rock Stadium on Tuesday August 3, 2021 in Miami Gardens, Fl.
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Miami Dolphins wide receiver DeVante Parker (11) during training camp at the Dolphins training complex at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens on Wednesday, August 25, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins linebacker Shaquem Griffin (53) takes his helmet off at practice at the new training complex at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Fl. on Thursday July 29, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins #28 RB Salvon Ahmed catches the ball during practice at the new training complex at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens Florida on Wednesday, July 28, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins running back Gerrid Doaks (23) takes a handoff during training camp at the Dolphins training complex at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens on Wednesday, August 04, 2021.
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Punter Michael Palardy works out during the Miami Dolphins practice, Saturday, July 31, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins wide receiver Lynne Bowden Jr.runs a route at the practice facility at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens Florida, on Thursday August 19, 2021.
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Receiver Albert Wilson runs hard during the Miami Dolphins practice, Saturday, July 31, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins cornerback Noah Igbinoghene (9) stretches at practice at the new training complex at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Fl. on Thursday July 29, 2021.
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The Miami Dolphins new training complex is in the shadow of the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens Florida on Wednesday, July 28, 2021.
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Miami Dolphin linebacker Vince Biegel (47) during practice at the Baptist Health Training Complex at Hard Rock Stadium on Tuesday August 3, 2021 in Miami Gardens, Fl.
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Miami Dolphins guard/tackle Robert Hunt (68) and outside linebacker Joe Sculthorpe (65) during training camp at the Dolphins training complex at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens on Wednesday, August 18, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins running back Malcolm Brown (34) during training camp at the Dolphins training complex at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens on Wednesday, August 18, 2021.
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Dan Marino gives a thumbs up at Dolphins practice at the new training complex at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Fl. on Thursday July 29, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins WR Jaylen Waddle catches the ball during practice at the new training complex at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens Florida on Wednesday, July 28, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins Safety Eric Rowe warms up at the practice facility at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens Florida, on Thursday August 19, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins RB Jordan Scarlett runs through drills during practice at the new training complex at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens Florida on Wednesday, July 28, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins fans watch the action at the practice facility at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens Florida, on Thursday August 19, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins G/T Jesse Davis mocks his oversized helmet during practice at the new training complex at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens Florida on Wednesday, July 28, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins wide receiver Lynne Bowden Jr. greets teammates at the practice facility at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens Florida, on Thursday August 19, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins linebacker Shaquem Griffin (53) and safety Jevon Holland run through a drill during practice at the new training complex at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Fl. on Thursday July 29, 2021.
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Tight end Cethan Carter stretches during the Miami Dolphins practice, Saturday, July 31, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins LB Duke Riley warms up during practice at the new training complex at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens Florida on Wednesday, July 28, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa (1) works with quarterbacks coach Charlie Frye during training camp at the Dolphins training complex at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens on Wednesday, August 04, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins wide receiver William Fuller V (3) and Co-Offensive Coordinator Eric Studesville talk during training camp at the Dolphins training complex at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens on Wednesday, August 25, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins defensive back Jason McCourty (30) and wide receiver Isaiah Ford (20) run a drill during training camp at the Dolphins training complex at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens on Wednesday, August 04, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins running back Patrick Laird catches the ball at the practice facility at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens Florida, on Thursday August 19, 2021.
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Dolphin fans watch practice at the Baptist Health Training Complex at Hard Rock Stadium on Tuesday August 3, 2021 in Miami Gardens, Fl.
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Miami Dolphins wide receiver Albert Wilson (2) catches a pass during training camp at the Dolphins training complex at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens on Wednesday, August 04, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa gives a thumbs up during practice at the new training complex at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens Florida on Wednesday, July 28, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins tight end Durham Smythe catches the ball at the practice facility at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens Florida, on Thursday August 19, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins wide receiver William Fuller V (3) catches a pass during training camp at the Dolphins training complex at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens on Wednesday, August 25, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins newly-signed tackle Greg Little (75) during training camp at the Dolphins training complex at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens on Wednesday, August 18, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins offensive linemen #63 C/G Michael Deiter and #72 OL Jermaine Eluemunor communicate on the line during practice at the new training complex at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens Florida on Wednesday, July 28, 2021.
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Dolphins fans watch their team work through drills during the Miami Dolphins practice, Saturday, July 31, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins linebacker Jaelan Phillips (15), center, during training camp at the Dolphins training complex at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens on Wednesday, August 18, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins head coach Brian Flores is shown during training camp at the Dolphins training complex at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens on Wednesday, August 04, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins defensive linemen go through drills at the practice facility at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens Florida, on Thursday August 19, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins quarterback Reid Sinnett (4) during training camp at the Dolphins training complex at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens on Wednesday, August 04, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins wide receiver DeVante Parker (11) stretches during training camp at the Dolphins training complex at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens on Wednesday, August 25, 2021.
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Dolphins safety Jevon Holland at practice at the new training complex at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Fl. on Thursday July 29, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins tight end Cethan Carter (82) runs with the ball during practice at the new training complex at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Fl. on Thursday July 29, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa throws the ball at the practice facility at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens Florida, on Thursday August 19, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins LB Brennan Scarlett during practice at the new training complex at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens Florida on Wednesday, July 28, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa (1) during training camp at the Dolphins training complex at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens on Wednesday, August 18, 2021.
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Running back Gerrid Doaks runs down the middle of the defense during the Miami Dolphins practice, Saturday, July 31, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins running back Myles Gaskin (37) loosens up during training camp at the Dolphins training complex at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens on Wednesday, August 25, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins #93 DE Jonathan Ledbetter, #53 LB Shaquem Griffin, #90 DT John Jenkins , #92 DT Zach Sieler, and #70 DL Adam Butler during practice at the new training complex at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens Florida on Wednesday, July 28, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins wide receiver DeVante Parker (11) catches a pass during training camp at the Dolphins training complex at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens on Wednesday, August 04, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa (1) during training camp at the Dolphins training complex at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens on Wednesday, August 04, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins wide receiver Jaylen Waddle (17) catches a pass as cornerback Justin Coleman (27) approaches from left during training camp at the Dolphins training complex at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens on Wednesday, August 04, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins wide receiver William Fuller V (3) catches a pass during training camp at the Dolphins training complex at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens on Wednesday, August 25, 2021.
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Quarterback Jacoby Brissett throws a pass during the Miami Dolphins practice, Saturday, July 31, 2021.
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Quarterback Tua Tagovailoa looks for a receiver during the Miami Dolphins practice, Saturday, July 31, 2021.
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Linebacker Vince Biegel works through drills during the Miami Dolphins practice, Saturday, July 31, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins S Nate Holley does push ups during practice at the new training complex at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens Florida on Wednesday, July 28, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins coach Brian Flores watches as quarterback Tua Tagovailoa throws a pass during practice at the new training complex at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens Florida on Wednesday, July 28, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa (1) bumps fists with wide receiver Jaylen Waddle (17) during training camp at the Dolphins training complex at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens on Wednesday, August 04, 2021.
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Receiver Lynn Bowdin Jr. catches a pass during the Miami Dolphins practice, Saturday, July 31, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins LB Benardrick McKinney gets ready forpractice at the new training complex at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens Florida on Wednesday, July 28, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins running back Gerrid Doaks runs with the ball during practice at the training facility at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens Florida on Saturday August 7, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins tight end Chris Myarick catches the ball at the practice facility at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens Florida, on Thursday August 19, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins running back Malcolm Brown carries the ball during practice at the Baptist Health Training Complex at Hard Rock Stadium on Tuesday August 3, 2021 in Miami Gardens, Fl.
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Miami Dolphins coach Brian Flores greets quarterback Tua Tagovailoa at the start of practice at the new training complex at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens Florida on Wednesday, July 28, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins guard/tackle Robert Hunt (68) during training camp at the Dolphins training complex at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens on Wednesday, August 18, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins wide receiver DeVante Parker (11) during training camp at the Dolphins training complex at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens on Wednesday, August 04, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins wide receiver Jaylen Waddle (17) catches a pass ahead of wide receiver Mack Hollins (86) during training camp at the Dolphins training complex at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens on Wednesday, August 04, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa throws the ball at the practice facility at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens Florida, on Thursday August 19, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins quarterback Jacoby Brissett sets up to throw the ball at practice at the new training complex at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Fl. on Thursday July 29, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins Coach Brian Flores and quarterback Tua Tagovailoa (1) watch a play during practice at the Baptist Health Training Complex at Hard Rock Stadium on Tuesday August 3, 2021 in Miami Gardens, Fl.
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Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa (1) throws a pass during training camp at the Dolphins training complex at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens on Wednesday, August 04, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins wide receiver Mack Hollins (86) and linebacker Duke Riley (45) during training camp at the Dolphins training complex at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens on Wednesday, August 25, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins head coach Brian Flores during training camp at the Dolphins training complex at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens on Wednesday, August 18, 2021.
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Miami Dolphin linebacker Vince Biegel (47) runs a play during practice at the Baptist Health Training Complex at Hard Rock Stadium on Tuesday August 3, 2021 in Miami Gardens, Fl.
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Miami Dolphin linebacker Vince Biegel (47) runs through a drill during practice at the Baptist Health Training Complex at Hard Rock Stadium on Tuesday August 3, 2021 in Miami Gardens, Fl.
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Miami Dolphins #28 RB Jordan Scarlett goes through drills during practice at the new training complex at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens Florida on Wednesday, July 28, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins linebacker Shaquem Griffin (53) runs a drill during training camp at the Dolphins training complex at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens on Wednesday, August 18, 2021.
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Cornerback Xavien Howard works through drills during the Miami Dolphins practice, Saturday, July 31, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins tight end Chris Myarick (85) attempts a catch as defensive back Jason McCourty (30) covers during practice at the Baptist Health Training Complex at Hard Rock Stadium on Tuesday August 3, 2021 in Miami Gardens, Fl.
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Miami Dolphins wide receiver Robert Foster runs a route at the practice facility at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens Florida, on Thursday August 19, 2021.
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Coach Brian Flores instructs his team during the Miami Dolphins practice, Saturday, July 31, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins punter Michael Palardy (5) during practice at the new training complex at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Fl. on Thursday July 29, 2021.
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Dolphins Duke Riley, left, and Brennan Scarlett work through a drill during the Miami Dolphins practice, Saturday, July 31, 2021.
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A young Dolphins fan watches his team work out during the Miami Dolphins practice, Saturday, July 31, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins S Brandon Jones taks a drink of water during practice at the new training complex at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens Florida on Wednesday, July 28, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins #25 CB Xavien Howard and #41 CB Cre'Von LeBlanc go through drills during practice at the new training complex at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens Florida on Wednesday, July 28, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins running back Myles Gaskin (37) during training camp at the Dolphins training complex at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens on Wednesday, August 18, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa (1) during training camp at the Dolphins training complex at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens on Wednesday, August 04, 2021.
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Running Back Malcolm Brown runs through the middle of the defense during the Miami Dolphins practice, Saturday, July 31, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa (1) during training camp at the Dolphins training complex at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens on Wednesday, August 18, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins safety Nate Holley (36) and linebackers Benardrick McKinney (50) and Jerome Baker (55) during practice at the new training complex at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Fl. on Thursday July 29, 2021.
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Miami football fans watch their team practice for the first time at the Dolphins new practice facility next to Hard Rock Stadium, Saturday, July 31, 2021.
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Dolphins fans watch their team work through drills during the Miami Dolphins practice, Saturday, July 31, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins head coach Brian Flores watches training camp at the Dolphins training complex at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens on Wednesday, August 04, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins running back Myles Gaskin (37) during training camp at the Dolphins training complex at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens on Wednesday, August 18, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins safety Jevon Holland (22) during training camp at the Dolphins training complex at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens on Wednesday, August 04, 2021.
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Receiver Albert Wilson signals "touchdown" during the Miami Dolphins practice, Saturday, July 31, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins tackles Larnel Coleman (79), left, and tackle Liam Eichenberg (74) run a drill during training camp at the Dolphins training complex at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens on Wednesday, August 25, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins linebacker Shaquem Griffin (53) runs through a drill during practice at the new training complex at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Fl. on Thursday July 29, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins head coach Brian Flores during training camp at the Dolphins training complex at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens on Wednesday, August 18, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa adjusts his helmet at the practice facility at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens Florida, on Thursday August 19, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins safety Jevon Holland goes through drills during practice at the training facility at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens Florida on Saturday August 7, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins running back Malcolm Brown (34) during training camp at the Dolphins training complex at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens on Wednesday, August 18, 2021.
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Miami Dolphin linebacker Vince Biegel (47) tries to break away from tackle Larnel Coleman (79) during practice at the Baptist Health Training Complex at Hard Rock Stadium on Tuesday August 3, 2021 in Miami Gardens, Fl.
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Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa during practice at the new training complex at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Fl. on Thursday July 29, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins LB Brennan Scarlett catches the ball during practice at the new training complex at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens Florida on Wednesday, July 28, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa (1) pulls up his helmet during training camp at the Dolphins training complex at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens on Wednesday, August 04, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins running back Salvon Ahmed (26) during training camp at the Dolphins training complex at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens on Wednesday, August 18, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins C/G Michael Dieter warms up at the practice facility at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens Florida, on Thursday August 19, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins running back Gerrid Doaks (23) during training camp at the Dolphins training complex at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens on Wednesday, August 25, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa (1) gives a thumbs up during training camp at the Dolphins training complex at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens on Wednesday, August 25, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins wide receiver Kirk Merritt (83) rolls in the end zone as cornerback Tino Ellis (46) trails behind during training camp at the Dolphins training complex at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens on Wednesday, August 04, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins, from left; wide receiver William Fuller V (3), linebacker Andrew Van Ginkel (43) and cornerback Xavien Howard (25) chat on the sideline during training camp at the Dolphins training complex at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens on Wednesday, August 04, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins wide receiver Jaylen Waddle runs with the ball during practice at the new training complex at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Fl. on Thursday July 29, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins quarterback Jacoby Brissett at practice at the new training complex at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Fl. on Thursday July 29, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins running back Salvon Ahmed (26) during training camp at the Dolphins training complex at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens on Wednesday, August 18, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins LB Jaelan Phillips goes up against TE Hunter Long during practice at the new training complex at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens Florida on Wednesday, July 28, 2021.
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Dolphins wide receiver Robert Foster catches the ball during practice at the new training complex at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Fl. on Thursday July 29, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins wide receiver Jaylen Waddle catches a pass during practice at the new training complex at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Fl. on Thursday July 29, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa gets ready for practice at the new training complex at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens Florida on Wednesday, July 28, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa passes the ball during practice at the new training complex at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Fl. on Thursday July 29, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins wide receiver Malcolm Perry catches the ball during practice at the training facility at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens Florida on Saturday August 7, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins quarterback Jacoby Brissett (14) during training camp at the Dolphins training complex at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens on Wednesday, August 04, 2021.
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Running back Salvon Ahmed protects the ball during the Miami Dolphins practice, Saturday, July 31, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins wide receiver Jaylen Waddle (17) during practice at the new training complex at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Fl. on Thursday July 29, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins wide receiver Jaylen Waddle catches the ball during practice at the training facility at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens Florida on Saturday August 7, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins quarterback Jacoby Brissett (14) hands off the ball to running back Salvon Ahmed (26) during practice at the Baptist Health Training Complex at Hard Rock Stadium on Tuesday August 3, 2021 in Miami Gardens, Fl.
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Miami Dolphin linebacker Vince Biegel (47) goes up against tackle Larnel Coleman (79) during practice at the Baptist Health Training Complex at Hard Rock Stadium on Tuesday August 3, 2021 in Miami Gardens, Fl.
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Miami Dolphins linebacker Shaquem Griffin (53) at practice at the new training complex at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Fl. on Thursday July 29, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins wide receiver Jaylen Waddle during practice at the new training complex at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Fl. on Thursday July 29, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins T Austin Jackson gets ready for practice at the new training complex at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens Florida on Wednesday, July 28, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins Coach Brian Flores during practice at the Baptist Health Training Complex at Hard Rock Stadium on Tuesday August 3, 2021 in Miami Gardens, Fl.
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Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa speaks to teammates including wide receiver Jaylen Waddle (17) during practice at the new training complex at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Fl. on Thursday July 29, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins DT Jerome Johnson during practice at the new training complex at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens Florida on Wednesday, July 28, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins wide receiver JaylenWaddle during practice at the new training complex at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Fl. on Thursday July 29, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins head coach Brian Flores chats with Atlanta Falcons safety Duron Harmon (21) during training camp at the Dolphins training complex at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens on Wednesday, August 18, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins LB Calvin Munson catches the ball during practice at the new training complex at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens Florida on Wednesday, July 28, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins WR Will Fuller runs with the ball during practice at the new training complex at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens Florida on Wednesday, July 28, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins wide receiver DeVante Parker (11) during training camp at the Dolphins training complex at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens on Wednesday, August 04, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins wide receiver Mack Hollins (86) runs a drill during training camp at the Dolphins training complex at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens on Wednesday, August 04, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins running back Gerrid Doaks (23) runs a play during training camp at the Dolphins training complex at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens on Wednesday, August 25, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins quarterbacks Jacoby Brissett, Tua Tagovailoa and Reid Sinnett talk during practice at the new training complex at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Fl. on Thursday July 29, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins wide receiver Robert Foster goes up for the ball during practice at the training facility at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens Florida on Saturday August 7, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins center/guard Michael Deiter (63) and newly-signed tackle Greg Little (75) during training camp at the Dolphins training complex at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens on Wednesday, August 18, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins WR Jaylen Waddle catches the ball during practice at the new training complex at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens Florida on Wednesday, July 28, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa (1) during training camp at the Dolphins training complex at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens on Wednesday, August 18, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins wide receiver Albert Wilson (2) stretches during training camp at the Dolphins training complex at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens on Wednesday, August 04, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins running back Salvon Ahmed (26) during practice at the Baptist Health Training Complex at Hard Rock Stadium on Tuesday August 3, 2021 in Miami Gardens, Fl.
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Miami Dolphins wide receiver DeVante Parker (11) goes out for a pass from quarterback Tua Tagovailoa (1) during training camp at the Dolphins training complex at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens on Wednesday, August 25, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins RB Salvon Ahmed and quarterback Tua Tagovailoa get ready for practice at the new training complex at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens Florida on Wednesday, July 28, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins linebacker Duke Riley (45) and wide receiver Mack Hollins (86) run a drill during training camp at the Dolphins training complex at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens on Wednesday, August 25, 2021.
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Dolphins wide receiver Robert Foster catches the ball during practice at the new training complex at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Fl. on Thursday July 29, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa greets WR Jaylen Waddle during practice at the new training complex at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens Florida on Wednesday, July 28, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins running back Salvon Ahmed (26) during training camp at the Dolphins training complex at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens on Wednesday, August 18, 2021.
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Dolphins safety Jevon Holland runs through a drill during practice at the new training complex at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Fl. on Thursday July 29, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins running back Salvon Ahmed (26) chats with Colby Smith during training camp at the Dolphins training complex at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens on Wednesday, August 18, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa (1) during training camp at the Dolphins training complex at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens on Wednesday, August 04, 2021.
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Football fans watch the Miami Dolphins practice, Saturday, July 31, 2021.
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Receiver Robert Foster runs a route during the Miami Dolphins practice, Saturday, July 31, 2021.
Susan Stocker / South Florida Sun Sentinel
Miami Dolphins linebacker Shaquem Griffin (53) and safety Jevon Holland (22) run through a drill during practice at the new training complex at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Fl. on Thursday July 29, 2021.
Amy Beth Bennett / South Florida Sun Sentinel
Miami Dolphins head coach Brian Flores is shown during training camp at the Dolphins training complex at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens on Wednesday, August 04, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins running back Malcolm Brown (34) during training camp at the Dolphins training complex at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens on Wednesday, August 18, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins quarterback Reid Sinnett throws the ball at the practice facility at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens Florida, on Thursday August 19, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins wide receiver Mack Hollins (86) catches a pass during training camp at the Dolphins training complex at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens on Wednesday, August 04, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins running back Myles Gaskin (37) during training camp at the Dolphins training complex at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens on Wednesday, August 18, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins running back Gerrid Doaks (23) stretches during training camp at the Dolphins training complex at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens on Wednesday, August 25, 2021.
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Miami Dolphins coach Brian Flores watches his players warm up for practice at the new training complex at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens Florida on Wednesday, July 28, 2021.

By David Furones | dfurones@sunsentinel.com | South Florida Sun Sentinel

PUBLISHED: July 28, 2021 at 2:18 p.m. | UPDATED: July 28, 2021 at 7:27 p.m.

Miami Dolphins coach Brian Flores and several players reacted to All-Pro cornerback Xavien Howard’s Tuesday night trade request on Wednesday as the team took the field for its first training camp practice.

“We understand his concerns,” Flores told 560-AM on Wednesday morning before practice. “Look, X is a great player, good teammate. His teammates love playing with him. I love coaching him. Obviously, we’ve had discussions with him, his representation. I talked to him yesterday. I’ll keep all those conversations between us, including his contract situation.

“I guess the plan is to continue to have discussions on our part, continue to have talks with him and his representation.”

Howard avoided a holdout — and $50,000 daily fines — by reporting to training camp on Tuesday. By Tuesday night, he took to Instagram to announce his trade desires before Wednesday’s first practice, which he was a limited participant in.

“We love X,” Flores said. “He’s a good player. He’s competitive. He’s here. He’s showing up. We expect him to contribute the same way he has. He was out there [Tuesday], passed his conditioning test. He’s in good shape. We understand his concerns, and we’ll just try to work through this as best we can.”

Flores was asked specifically if he’s still confident the team can work through the ordeal, keeping Howard with the Dolphins and happy in Miami.

“There’s a way,” Flores said. “I think we just continue to have discussions with him, his representation, and keep the lines of communication open, continue having dialogue and, hopefully, work something out. At the same time, we’ve got 90, 89 other guys that we’ll be working with, to include X. Try to build this team and improve on a day-to-day basis, build team chemistry. That’s where most of our focus is. The X thing is something we’re having discussions about, as well.”

On Howard’s end, in his statement released Tuesday night, he wrote, “Until that trade happens I am just here so I don’t get fined, and will handle myself like professionals do.”

He was present at the Dolphins’ Wednesday practice and was involved in individual drills, but he was a limited participant in 7-on-7 and 11-on-11 portions of practice.

Two playoff teams, among others, have called the Dolphins inquiring about trading for Howard, according to the NFL Network.

Dolphins players showed Howard, a candidate for Defensive Player of the Year in 2020 with 10 interceptions, their support following Wednesday’s drills.

“I support X, with whatever decisions he [makes],” said second-year quarterback Tua Tagovailoa. “He’s helped our team tremendously through the years, and I’ve only been on this team for one year and I’ve been able to see what he’s been able to do. That’s not in my control, but I support him.”

Said outside linebacker Andrew Van Ginkel: “He’s a great guy, great teammate, and I wish nothing but the best for him. It’s his decision, and all you can do is support it.”

Added tight end Mike Gesicki: “Obviously, you wish X the absolute best in whatever that situation’s going on. I don’t know that much about it. As a teammate, as a friend, you do wish him the absolute best no matter what happens. For me, I just try to keep to myself and just go about my every day.”

Veteran defensive back Jason McCourty just enjoyed meeting Howard for the first time in earnest after competing against him in the AFC East for the past three seasons with McCourty on the New England Patriots.

“I had never met X, so this was the first time between [Tuesday and Wednesday],” McCourty said. “Getting the chance to laugh with him, joke with him in meetings, getting a chance to know him. To me, that’s the most important part.

“From the outside looking in, I know how good of a player he is,” he continued. “We know how special he is as a player, and how much better he makes — not only the defense — but the team. When it comes to his contract, that’s personal. Those things have to be dealt with between him and the team. We respect the fact that he has to take care of himself and his family, and you just wait for all of those things to get figured out.”

Brian Flores, Dolphins players react to Xavien…

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Brian Flores, Dolphins players react to Xavien Howard’s trade request: ‘We understand his concerns’

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