AN NFL star with $93 million in career earnings has abruptly retired four weeks into this season.
The cornerback cited that he wanted to put his family first after coming out of retirement ahead of the 2025 NFL season.
Xavien Howard announced his retirement just four games into the 2025 NFL season[/caption]
Howard cited family as the reason he was stepping back[/caption]
Xavien Howard was looking to revive his NFL career after a year away from the game.
But the star surprisingly announced his retirement after a tricky game against the Los Angeles Rams.
The Indianapolis Colts lost 27-20, as Matthew Stafford threw for almost 400 yards and three touchdowns.
Howard received a lot of criticism for his performance on Sunday as he struggled to contain star receiver Puka Nacua.
He released a statement on Instagram after just four weeks of the season.
He wrote, “Throughout my career, I’ve always played football for the love of the sport.
“I enjoyed everything that came with being part of the NFL, it was my passion for the game that drove me.
“I love and appreciate the Miami Dolphins for drafting me and giving me the chance to play pro football.
“I cannot thank the Indianapolis Colts enough for letting me continue to live out my dreams, but my dream has now changed.
“I’ve been getting closer to God and asking that he directs my path. I am a man of faith and I believe wholeheartedly that He doesn’t make mistakes.
“He has led me to ending my career. I’m now putting God and my priorities first.
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’m retiring from the National Football League.
“My purpose has been fulfilled in the sport, but my kids are more important to me than football.
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“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’m putting my family first and I’m proud and excited about that decision.”
The 32-year-old signed a deal with the Colts in August after a year out of the game.
He was originally selected in the second round of the 2016 NFL Draft by the Dolphins.
He spent eight years in Florida before he was cut.
During that time, he was selected in four Pro-Bowls, including being a First-Team All-Pro in 2020.
He also led the league in interceptions in 2018 and 2020.
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