Indianapolis Colts starting safety Khari Willis announced on Wednesday that he is retiring after three seasons in the NFL to pursue a future in ministry.

The 26-year-old Willis 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. 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 …”

Colts head coach Frank 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. 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.”

A fourth-round pick in 2019, Willis became the Colts starting safety halfway through his rookie year. He finishes his career with 219 tackles and four interceptions while starting 33 out of the 39 games he played in.

Editorial credit: Jamie Lamor Thompson / Shutterstock.com