Dolphins helmet

MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA – AUGUST 21: A detail of a Miami Dolphins helmet prior to the preseason game against the Atlanta Falcons at Hard Rock Stadium on August 21, 2021 in Miami Gardens, Florida. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images)

The Dolphins and one-star player seem to be steering toward a divorce after 8 years.

A new report says star defensive back Xavien Howard is expected to be cut from the team after June 1st.

The former All-Pro will turn 31 years old before the 2024 NFL season. He just completed his eighth season with the Dolphins, who have been his only NFL team since he was selected with the No. 38 overall pick in the 2016 NFL Draft.

With a post-June 1 release designation, Miami can save $18.5 million, with a $7.4 million dead cap hit in 2024 and a $15.7 million cap hit in 2025.

He remains under contract with the Dolphins, but his $15.4 million salary for the 2024 campaign is non-guaranteed, which could make him a candidate to be cut from the roster.

Miami reportedly is projected to be more than $50 million over the NFL salary cap for this upcoming season and may need to make even more tough choices regarding other players.

Howard contributed 45 tackles, one interception, and 12 pass deflections in the 13 games he played last season.