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Former Dolphins legend Xavien Howard announced his retirement Wednesday.
Xavien Howard, the 32-year-old Indianapolis Colts cornerback who spent his first eight seasons with the Miami Dolphins, abruptly retired Wednesday.
Howard posted a picture of himself in a Dolphins uniform alongside a statement that spelled out his rationale for calling it a career midyear. Howard had started each of the Colts‘ first four games, posting 11 tackles and one fumble recovery while picking up a 36.1 grade in Pro Football Focus.
In his eight years with the Dolphins, Howard led the NFL in interceptions twice, including 2020 when he had 10 picks and an NFL-best 20 passes defended while achieving first-team All-Pro status.
Xavien Howard’s ‘Purpose Has Been Fulfilled’ Playing Football
Howard last played for the Dolphins in 2023 and stepped away from football for the 2024 season before making a comeback with the Colts this year.
So, according to his post, he is leaving his one-year, $1.255 million contract to spend more time with his family.
“My purpose has been fulfilled in this sport, but my kids are more important to me than football,” Howard wrote. “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 referenced his year off and how he took the time to take care of his four children. He opened up about
“I fell in love with taking my kids to school, doing activities with them and watching them grow up,” Howard wrote. “Up to that point, I had always put my family after football. I’m no longer willing to do so.”
Xavien Howard: ‘I Love and Appreciate The Miami Dolphins’
Howard referenced his relationship with his faith having an impact on his decision.
“I am a man of faith and believe wholeheartedly that He doesn’t make mistakes,” Howard wrote. “He has led me to ending my career. I am now putting God and my priorities first.”
In 100 NFL games with the Dolphins, Howard had 331 tackles, 29 interceptions, plus two sacks, four forced fumbles, five fumble recoveries and 95 passes defended. He was named to four Pro Bowl Games and scored four touchdowns, two on interceptions and two on fumble recoveries.
I love and appreciate the Miami Dolphins for drafting me and giving me the chance to play pro football,” Howard wrote. “Throughout my career, I’m always played football for the love of the sport. I enjoyed everything that came with being part of the NFL. It was my passion for the game that drove me.”
Fellow Star Cornerbacks Rushed To Voice Support For Xavien Howard
Howard’s social-media post was met with wide praise from a number of star-caliber cornerbacks, including Howard’s former Dolphins teammate, and current Pittsburgh Steelers defensive back Jalen Ramsey.
“LEGENDARY CAREER!” Ramsey commented. “Respect through the roof. Much love man.”
Patrick Surtain II, widely considered the best corner in the NFL right now for the Denver Broncos, also offered his well wishes.
“Legendary Career Brotha!!” Surtain wrote. “Congrats.”
Howard may be a native of Houston, but former Miami-area superstar quarterback Teddy Bridgewater, who is now playing for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, knows Howard’s impact on the Miami area.
“Proud of you dawg!” Bridgewater commented. “You’re a legend and will definitely be a 305 HOF’er!!!”
Pat Pickens is an experienced sports writer and media personality who has written for outlets like NHL.com, the Associated Press, the New York Times and USA Today. He covers the NFL, NBA, NHL and NBA as a breaking news contributor at Heavy. More about Pat Pickens
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