Howard’s big season includes MVP nod

DAVIE — Miami Dolphins cornerback Xavien Howard was named the 2018 Dan Marino Most Valuable Player, while quarterback Ryan Tannehill, running back Frank Gore and receiver Kenny Stills also won team awards that were announced Wednesday.

Howard, a third-year cornerback, is tied for the NFL lead with seven interceptions and leads all defenders with eight turnovers despite missing the past three games with a left knee injury.

Howard is a first-time winner of the award and the third cornerback to earn the honor, joining Sam Madison in 1999 and Brent Grimes in 2013.

“It’s great,” Howard said of the award. “I just really want to build from there and keep it going.”

Gore won the Don Shula Leadership Award, Tannehill was named the Ed Block Courage Award winner and Stills earned the Nat Moore Community Service Award.

Gore, a former University of Miami great in his first season with the Dolphins, was voted by teammates as the team’s best leader on and off the field. His season was cut short due to a foot injury he suffered in Week 15.

Tannehill, who has played all but five games this season, was recognized by teammates for professionalism, great strength, dedication and being a community role model.

Stills became the second player in team history to win the community service award three straight seasons, joining Brandon Fields.

Stills is also a nominee for this year’s Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year Award.