Indianapolis Colts safety Khari Willis announced his retirement at just age 26. The news is shocking without question, as Willis was expected to play a big role for the Colts this season. However, Willis shared a specific reason for retiring which Tim Tebow and Russell Wilson will surely appreciate.
“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.”
Willis's full statement can be read below.
#Colts safety Khari Willis is retiring after three seasons. He explains why 👇👇👇 pic.twitter.com/F8aac44Ecp
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) June 15, 2022
In a sense, the former Colts safety is following in the footsteps of Tim Tebow. Tebow was one of the most outspoken believers in Jesus during his playing days, and he has been involved in plenty of ministry work since retiring from the NFL. Russell Wilson has also expressed that his faith is an important part of his life.
Willis was a fourth round pick out of Michigan State in 2019. Over the course of 33 NFL games, he recorded 219 combined tackles and 161 solo tackles from the safety position. He added 4 interceptions, 11 passes defended, 1 forced fumble, and 1 touchdown for good measure. Willis was known as a player with tremendous defensive instincts. The Colts will miss him in their secondary this season.
However, The Colts appear to be in good position to replace him.
Colts insider Zak Keefer shared this update following Willis's retirement announcement.
Let's just say this: Colts are really happy they traded up for Nick Cross. They like what they've seen so far from him (he got some reps w/ 1s in minicamp) and they think he can be a difference-maker.
Let's just say this: Colts are really happy they traded up for Nick Cross. They like what they've seen so far from him (he got some reps w/ 1s in minicamp) and they think he can be a difference-maker.
Also, don't forget how well Blackmon was playing last year before the injury.
— Zak Keefer (@zkeefer) June 15, 2022
With that being said, we want to wish Khari Willis good luck in all of his future endeavors.
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