Indianapolis Colts safety Khari Willis announced his retirement from the NFL on Wednesday, according to Zak Keefer, a writer for The Athletic.
News: Somewhat surprisingly, Colts safety Khari Willis is retiring. His plan is to devote himself to full-time ministry. Willis, a 2019 fourth-round draft pick out of Michigan State, has started 33 games over the past three seasons, racking up 219 tackles and four interceptions.
— Zak Keefer (@zkeefer) June 15, 2022
Willis made the announcement via his Instagram and talked about turning his attention to a career in ministry:
“I have chosen to officially retire from the NFL as I seek to devote the remainder of my life to the advancement of the Gospel of Jesus Christ,” Willis said in his retirement announcement.
A former fourth-round pick in 2019 out of Michigan State, Willis started 33 games and produced 219 combined tackles (161 solo), 3.5 sacks and four interceptions over his three seasons in Indianapolis.
Even with Willis’ sudden retirement, the Colts still appear to be in good shape with their safety depth. Indianapolis made several offseason acquisitions at the position, including veteran Rodney McLeod, Armani Watts and rookie third-round pick Nick Cross. According to Keefer, the Colts “like what they’ve seen from Cross so far.”
Let’s just say this: The Colts are very happy they traded for Nick Cross. They like what they’ve seen from him so far (he took some reps with 1 in minicamp) and think he can make a difference.
Also, don’t forget how well Blackmon was playing last year before the injury.
— Zak Keefer (@zkeefer) June 15, 2022
Colts head coach Frank Reich expressed his appreciation for Willis’ play and leadership throughout his three seasons with the organization.
“… I missed our dressing room like his work 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.” – Frank Reich @WISH_TV
— Charlie Clifford (@cliffWISH8) June 15, 2022
“We are thankful and appreciative of Khari’s contributions to the Colts on and off the field over the past three seasons,” Reich said. “Khari’s character, leadership and professionalism will be missed in our dressing 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.”
