Cashius Howell, a defensive standout for the Cincinnati Bengals, grew up in a household where the clang of hockey sticks was as familiar as the roar of a football stadium. His father, Max Howell, once chased a dream on the ice before turning to urban real estate development, a pivot that would later shape his son's approach to the game.
A Shared Journey
Max Howell's early years as a black player in a predominantly white hockey league were marked by isolation and prejudice. He navigated those challenges while building a career in real estate, eventually establishing himself as a successful urban developer with more than two decades of experience.
When the COVID‑19 pandemic disrupted high school recruiting, Cashius found himself without the usual showcase opportunities. He responded by enrolling at Bowling Green State University, where he refined his skills before transferring to Texas A&M, where he earned the distinction of SEC Defensive Player of the Year.
The transition from the rink to the gridiron was not merely a change of venue; it was a synthesis of techniques. Cashius credits his hockey background for his agility and spatial awareness, traits that his father's stories of overcoming adversity reinforced.
Beyond the field, the Howell family bond proved to be a stabilizing force. Max's brief stint in a white‑collar legal case, which he later reflected on as a catalyst for his son's drive, underscored a shared resilience that helped both father and son navigate public scrutiny.
Today, Cashius prepares for the upcoming NFL season with the Bengals, carrying with him the lessons of a multicultural upbringing, a father's relentless work ethic, and a legacy that bridges two sports worlds.
Max is currently working on a book that chronicles his experiences in urban redevelopment and the intersection of sports culture with community building, a project that promises to shed further light on the family's enduring influence.