Usually the end of an NFL player’s career is marked by injury or being overtaken by newer talent; but for Xavien Howard–an accomplished cornerback known for making four Pro Bowl appearances–his departure was far different. After appearing in only four games with Indianapolis Colts–an underperforming franchise–Howard decided on an unexpected exit strategy and chose retirement instead of signing with another club.
Omar Kelly broke the news of Howard’s retirement first, explaining it wasn’t due to physical fatigue but rather personal change. Howard declared, “My dream has now changed” while discussing an inner awakening which brought closer connections with God and called him away from football altogether. This revelation occurred after some time reflecting during rehabilitation from foot injury 2024 rehab sessions wherein Howard found fulfillment beyond football with family time, particularly being with them on special occasions like Mothers’ Day or Father’s Day.
Howard’s time away from football in 2024, and the joy he found in simple activities like taking his children to school, offered him a perspective that the competitiveness of football could not. His return to the NFL in 2025 with the Colts was short-lived as the physical and emotional distance from his family weighed heavily on him. The pivotal moment came with a heartfelt call from his oldest child, which solidified his decision to prioritize his family over his football career.
The Catalyst for Change at 32
Despite an impressive career with 29 interceptions over 104 games and a season that saw him making 10 interceptions alone, Howard’s passion for the game waned upon his brief tenure with the Colts. Facing a personal crossroads, he questioned his happiness and fulfillment in life. It became clear to Howard that maintaining the status quo was unsatisfactory, leading to his bold decision to retire at the age of 32—even with the Colts having a promising season start.
As Howard abruptly retired from professional basketball in January 2017, the Colts attempted to convince him otherwise but ultimately respected his choice to focus on family matters instead of professional. Howard’s retirement serves as an insightful reminder of all of the personal difficulties and tough choices athletes must make between fulfilling professional ambitions with personal happiness and family obligations.
Xavien Howard’s departure from the NFL offers an instructive lesson about reassessing one’s priorities in life and having the courage to forge new paths even when these diverge from previous desires and ambitions.