Miami High School senior Rhett Howe embraces the responsibilities that come with playing strong safety. A hard-nosed defender who enjoys attacking the action, Howe takes pride in helping set the tone for the Wardogs’ defense.
“I play Strong Safety and what I enjoy at my position is that I’m able to get downhill and make plays on the ball,” Howe said.
That downhill approach reflects the influence of former NFL standout Brian Dawkins, whose physical style has helped shape Howe’s mindset on the field.
“Brian Dawkins inspires me because he isn’t afraid of contact and isn’t scared of anyone out on that football field and that inspires me to play just like him at safety,” Howe said.
Howe sees tackling and fitting the run as the biggest strengths of his game. At the same time, he understands that continued development is part of becoming a more complete defensive back.
“The strength of my game is that I run fit very well and I’m really good at tackling, but I need to improve on my zone coverage,” Howe said.
Team chemistry is another element Howe values. He appreciates the support players give one another through practices, games and the challenges of a football season.
“One thing that I love about my teammates is that we are all there for each other,” Howe said.
He has also noticed the early contributions of sophomore quarterback Dane Jones.
“I felt Dane Jones has stuck out so far this year because he has taken the starting QB role very well especially as a sophomore,” Howe said.
Howe credits teammate David Homer with helping him learn the safety position when he was first getting started.
“David Homer is a teammate that has left an impression on me whenever I first started playing safety, he really had taught me a lot,” Howe said.
Outside football, Howe plays baseball and competes in steer wrestling. Following high school, he hopes to begin a career in construction.
