Colts starting safety Khari Willis announced his retirement from the NFL after just three seasons on Wednesday in a post to his social media accounts.
“The lessons that I've learned in this phase of my life will be valuable for me in my next chapter,” he wrote. “With much prayer and deliberation, I have elected to officially retire from the NFL as I endeavor to devote the remainder of my life to the further advancement of the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
“I thank all of my family, friends and those who have supported me on this journey thus far and I look forward to your continued support through the next phase of my life. I am both humbled and excited to pursue the holy call that God has for my life which brings me much joy and purpose. Thank you all for your support over the years."
The 5-foot-11, 213-pound defensive back started 33 of his 39 games since the Colts selected him in the fourth round of the 2019 NFL Draft. In those games, the former Michigan State standout totaled 219 tackles, four interceptions, seven pass breakups, 3 1/2 sacks, seven tackles for a loss and one fumble recovery.
“We’re thankful and appreciative of Khari’s contributions to the Colts both on and off the field over the last three seasons,” Colts head coach Frank Reich said in a statement from the team. “Khari’s character, leadership, and professionalism will be missed in our locker room as will his play on Sundays. I admire and respect his decision to transition into the next stage of his life and ministry and my prayers will always be with him.”
(Photo: Marc Lebryk / USA Today)
How does this impact the Colts' depth in the secondary?
Stephen Holder, Colts beat writer: Losing Willis will certainly impact the Colts' defense. He adds considerable toughness with his tackling and is a versatile player who can perform several different roles. The good news for the Colts is they have recently added significant depth at safety. Indianapolis signed free agents Rodney McLeod and Armani Watts this spring then drafted Nick Cross of Maryland in the third round. Each player has been active in the secondary during offseason practices, though the Colts are particularly excited about Cross and his impressive speed and coverage ability.
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What aspect of Willis' game will be most missed?
Holder: Willis has been a formidable tackler for the Colts, and his contributions have been key to the team being among the best run-stopping clubs in the NFL. Willis' ability to play either safety position also gave the Colts versatility and allowed them to disguise coverages. Additionally, Willis has been a key young leader for the Colts, although they have recently added a good deal of experience in the secondary with the new safeties and the signing of veteran cornerback Stephon Gilmore.
