Xavien Howard Retires from NFL After 4 Games with Colts, Says ‘Family First’

Xavien Howard’s comeback attempt in Indianapolis has come to an unexpected end. The four-time Pro Bowl cornerback informed the Colts on Wednesday that he is retiring from the NFL after just four games with the franchise. Howard, 32, signed with Indianapolis in August following a year away from football. He started each of the team’s first four games this season, but after a rough outing against the Los Angeles Rams in Week 4, he chose to step away from the game entirely.

The Colts placed Howard on the reserve/retired list Tuesday, officially closing the book on his brief stint in Indianapolis.

‘My Dream Has Now Changed’

In a statement posted to social media, Howard said his priorities shifted during his time away from football.

“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,” Howard wrote. “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.”

He continued: “My purpose has been fulfilled in this sport, but my kids are more important to me than football. I’ve had a hell of a career, and even though it’s ending in a unique way, I’m cool with that because for once I am putting my family first and I’m proud and excited about that decision.”

Struggles in Coverage

While Howard remained a starter through four weeks, his play had slipped noticeably. Against the Rams, he was the nearest defender on seven receptions for 112 yards and a touchdown, according to Next Gen Stats. Los Angeles rookie receiver Puka Nacua, often lined up against Howard, erupted for 13 catches and 170 yards — both season highs.

The struggles came on the heels of another tough game in Week 2 against the Denver Broncos, when Howard drew three penalties for pass interference and holding. After the Rams loss, Howard admitted, “Not to my ability,” when asked about his performance.

Head coach Shane Steichen had defended his veteran corner earlier this week, noting that Howard had faced “two elite receivers” in Nacua and Davante Adams. The Colts were not expected to make a lineup change before Howard chose to retire.

A Decorated Career in Miami

Despite the abrupt ending, Howard leaves behind an impressive résumé. Drafted by the Miami Dolphins in the second round in 2016, he became one of the league’s premier ballhawks.

Howard twice led the NFL in interceptions, including a career-best 10 picks in 2020, when he also recorded 20 passes defensed, earned first-team All-Pro honors, and finished as a finalist for Defensive Player of the Year.

In total, Howard retires with 29 career interceptions — third among active players at the time of his retirement — and 95 passes defensed across 104 career games. He also earned more than $90 million in career earnings, largely from a five-year, $75 million extension he signed with Miami in 2019.

Colts’ Next Man Up

With Howard stepping away, the Colts will turn to undrafted rookie Johnathan Edwards to start opposite veteran Charvarius Ward in the secondary. Edwards was the only undrafted player to make Indianapolis’ initial 53-man roster this season.

The Colts are off to a surprising 3-1 start, and while Howard’s departure leaves a gap in experience, the team will now lean on its young secondary to continue its momentum.