Colts veteran cornerback retires after a slow start to the 2025 season.

Following a challenging beginning to the 2025 NFL season, Indianapolis Colts cornerback Xavien Howard announced his retirement from the NFL after nine seasons via Instagram. This news came after the Colts decision to place him on the Reserve/Retired list.

Howard’s slow start for the season, which included being targeted frequently, being penalized, and allowing a high passer rating in coverage. After four games, Howard announced his retirement from the NFL. He cited his desire to prioritize his faith and family and to conclude his NFL comeback. When targeted by the Denver Broncos, Howard completed 8 of 8 passes for 78 yards, two touchdowns, and a passer rating of 158.3, according to Pro Football Focus. When targeted by the Los Angeles Rams, Howard completed 7 of 9 passes for 112 yards, one touchdown, and a passer rating of 155.6, according to Pro Football Focus.

Howard committed four penalties, including holding and pass interference. Three of those penalties were against the Broncos, and one was against the Tennessee Titans. Now that Xavien Howard has retired from the league, the Colts will need to find his replacement, considering players like Johnathan Edwards or Mekhi Blackmon. The team signed undrafted rookie Keenan Garber to the practice squad to provide depth.