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.

Xavien Howard releases statement on retirement

“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 sa

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