Without Howard, competition at rages on

As the Miami Dolphins continue to work in training camp without one of their top players, the competition at his position rages on for many on the team’s roster.

Dolphins cornerback Xavien Howard, a former Pro Bowler, remains sidelined and in quarantine while on the NFL’s reserve/COVID-19 list.

Tuesday marks a week since Howard has been on the list. Also, Howard started training camp on the physicallyunable-to-perform list as he continues to rehabilitate his surgically repaired left knee.

Without Howard, Dolphins coach Brian Flores hopes to pair offseason acquisition Byron Jones, the NFL’s highest-paid cornerback, with players like first-round rookie Noah Igbinoghene, and returning defensive backs Nik Needham, Jamal Perry, Teddy Hayes and Ken Webster.

“There’s a lot of competition. We’re focused on the guys that are here,” Flores said Tuesday when asked about Howard, who has started 39 of the 40 games he played in the past four seasons and was selected to the 2018 Pro Bowl.

“Obviously Xavien is one of our top players so we’re hoping to get him back as soon as we can. He’s on COVID-IR right now, and we’re just working through those protocols from that standpoint.

“But as of right now, we’re working without him. We have to, really. It’s our only option. … When he comes back, that maybe a different conversation.”

Howard’s time away from the team could be indefinite. As of Tuesday, Howard is one of just 10 NFL players sidelined on the COVID-19 list.

Even when Howard is activated off the list after at least two negative tests, his rehabilitation work will continue in order to take him off the PUP list.

With a four-week sprint until the season opener at New England on Sept. 13, Flores will depend on his deep group of defensive backs hoping at least one can emerge at the cornerback position opposite Jones, who signed a five-year, $82.5 million deal with the Dolphins this offseason.

Igbinoghene, the third of three Dolphins first round picks at No. 30 in the NFL draft last April, may be an early favorite for the position.

Igbinoghene nearly intercepted quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick on a pass intended for receiver Jakeem Grant, while also breaking up passes defending DeVante Parker and Ricardo Louis during Tuesday’s practice.

Edge rushers vs. O-linemen

Outside linebackers Andrew Van Ginkel and Biegel, before he was injured, were able to get around right tackle Jesse Davis.

Defensive tackle Christian Wilkins was able to pressure rookie offensive lineman Robert Hunt.

Center Ted Karras appeared to have a solid grip on defensive tackle Davon Godchaux.

While Biegel was able to get past Davis, he was unable to get pass rookie first-round left tackle Austin Jackson.

New defensive end Emmanuel Ogbah got around reserve tackle Adam Pankey.

Offensive lineman Shaq Calhoun, who started at right guard last season, was able to keep defensive tackle Zach Sieler in check.

Shaq Lawson appeared to get past left tackle Julien Davenport.

Rookie defensive tackle Raekwon Davis dominated one-on-ones versus the offensive line. He was the most impressive performer. He won just about every rep but one, which was a tie.