Colts' Howard abruptly retires, says 'family first'

Veteran cornerback Xavien Howard, 32, has announced his abrupt retirement from the NFL, citing "family first" as the reason. The decision comes just days after his much-criticized performance against the Rams, where he struggled on the field. Howard played for the Colts and had a significant impact on the team's defense. However, the recent game against the Rams, where he faced criticism for his performance, seems to have been a contributing factor in his decision to retire. The retirement announcement has surprised many in the NFL community, as Howard was considered a key player for the Colts. The team will now have to adjust their plans and find a replacement for the veteran cornerback. The article emphasizes that Howard's decision to retire is primarily driven by his desire to prioritize his family, indicating that he has chosen to step away from the game to focus on personal matters. This decision highlights the complex balance professional athletes often face between their careers and personal lives.