Xavien Howard Retires from NFL, 4-Time Pro Bowler Played for Dolphins, Colts

Xavien Howard's NFL career is reportedly over.

NFL Network's Ian Rapoport reported Wednesday the Indianapolis Colts placed the veteran cornerback on the reserve/retired list, while NFL Network's Tom Pelissero reported he retired.

Howard confirmed his retirement in a statement to Omar Kelly of the Miami Herald, writing, "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'm putting my family first and I'm proud and excited about that decision."

Howard appeared in four games for the Colts this season prior to this decision. 

Indianapolis announced it signed safety Trey Washington to the 53-man roster from the practice squad in a corresponding move.

The AFC South team signed Howard this offseason after he did not play in 2024, but he largely struggled during his brief time with the team. He was particularly poor during Sunday's loss to the Los Angeles Rams, which was the Colts' first defeat of the season.

According to Pro Football Focus, he allowed seven receptions for 112 yards and a touchdown against Los Angeles. Howard was no match for a receiving group that includes Puka Nacua and Davante Adams and didn't look like the version of himself that was so impressive at times with the Miami Dolphins.

▶️ Full Colts-Rams Recap

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The Baylor product entered the league as a second-round pick in the 2016 NFL draft and played his first eight seasons with the Dolphins.

His time with Miami included four Pro Bowl selections, including when he led the league with seven interceptions in 2018 and 10 picks in 2020. Howard was a First-Team All-Pro in 2020 while also posting an NFL-best 20 passes defended.

He built on that as a Pro Bowler in 2021 and 2022 but did not look like the same player after he didn't play in 2024. He failed to notch a single pass defended in his four games with the Colts and is now hanging up the cleats.

The 32-year-old finishes his career with 342 tackles, 29 interceptions, 95 passes defended, six fumble recoveries and four forced fumbles.

As for the Colts, they will look to bounce back from their loss to the Rams without Howard when they face the Las Vegas Raiders in Week 5.