All-Pro Cornerback Xavien Howard Retires Midseason, Citing Family Priorities

On October 2nd, 2025, the Indianapolis Colts announced the shocking retirement of veteran cornerback Xavien Howard. The two-time All-Pro was not at practice just two days prior due to personal reasons, and the team subsequently placed him on the reserve/retired list.

Howard, 32, had signed a one-year, $1.3 million deal with the Colts in August, but his tenure with the franchise was short-lived. In his 4 games with the team, Howard struggled mightily, getting picked on constantly in coverage. He recorded just 1 fumble recovery and allowed opposing quarterbacks to complete 14 of 21 passes for 176 yards and 2 touchdowns against him.

In a statement shared on Instagram, Howard expressed his appreciation for the game of football, saying "I enjoyed everything that came with being a part of the NFL, it was my passion for the game that drove me." However, he noted that his "dream has now changed" and that his "kids are more important" to him than the sport.

The Colts had been hopeful about Howard's fit on the team, as he was reunited with defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo, who had coached him in Miami when the Dolphins drafted Howard in the second round in 2016. Despite Howard's past success, which included 29 interceptions from 2016 to 2025, he was unable to recapture that form in Indianapolis.

With Howard's retirement, the Colts will now turn to younger options like 2023 third-round pick Mekhi Blackmon and undrafted rookie Johnathan Edwards to fill the void in their secondary. Veteran Jaylon Jones, currently on injured reserve, may also be an option to consider when he returns in Week 6.