Khari Willis, a three-year safety for the Indianapolis Colts, and a player who was expected to be a returning starter for the playoff contender, abruptly announced his retirement last week to become a minister.
Willis, who is 26, wrote in an Instagram post, “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.”
Willis, who was drafted in the fourth round out of Michigan State and became a starter during his rookie season, had a base salary of $850,000 last season. But he would have seen a huge jump in salary when his rookie contract expires at the end of the coming season, or the Colts would likely have offered to extend it this year at a premium of several times. Willis finishes his career with 219 tackles and four interceptions.
“I am both humbled and excited to pursue the holy call that God has for my life which brings me much joy and purpose,” he said. “Thank you all for your support over the years.”
The team will be left trying to fill a hole in its secondary, but Head Coach Frank Reich said Willis has his respect.
Reich said in a statement, “We’re thankful and appreciative of Khari’s contributions to the Colts both on and off the field over the last three seasons. 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.”