Former All-Pro defensive back Xavien Howard has abruptly retired from the NFL just days after a rough showing against the Los Angeles Rams.
The Indianapolis Colts placed Howard on the reserve/retired list on Wednesday after he informed the team of his intention to end his career. In a statement, the 32-year-old said he realized after taking a year away from the NFL that spending time with his family was more important to him than playing.
“When I was away from the game in 2024, I fell in love with taking my kids to school, doing activities with them and watching them grow up. Up to that point I had always put my family after football. I’m no longer willing to do so. So today I am retiring from the National Football League,” Howard said.
#Colts cornerback Xavien Howard is retiring from football.
— Omar Kelly (@OmarKelly) October 1, 2025
Here is his statement to the NFL:
“Throughout my career I’ve always played football for the love of the sport. I enjoyed everything that came with being apart of the NFL, it was my passion for the game that drove me. I…
Howard did not play in the NFL in 2024, but decided to return in 2025 by signing a one-year, $1.25 million deal with Indianapolis just before the start of the season. He made 11 tackles in four games, but looked to be a shadow of his old self, particularly in last Sunday’s loss to the Rams.
Howard spent his best years with the Miami Dolphins. He was a four-time Pro Bowl selection and was named a first-team All-Pro in 2020. His performances had tailed off over the last few seasons, and the Dolphins let him go after the 2023 season to get out from under his very expensive contract.
