Yesterday, the Chicago Bears announcement that quarterback Caleb Williams was their Offensive Player of the Year, so naturally, the Defensive Player of the Year announcement was coming today, and All-Pro safety Kevin Byard III was “honored” with the honor.
Byard, 32, has played some very good football since signing with the Navy and Orange in 2024, appearing in all 17 games both years. This season, he was selected to his third Pro Bowl and named First Team All-Pro for the third time. He led the NFL with 7 interceptions, his 93 tackles tied for second on the team, and he added 8 passes defended, a sack, 4 tackles for loss and 3 QB hits, while providing exceptional leadership on and off the field. In the playoffs, he contributed with 10 more tackles and 2 tackles for loss.
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The soon-to-be free agent has said he would like to return to Chicago, even calling him a “top pick,” and the Bears are also open to re-signing him.
“Kevin is a special player,” said general manager Ryan Poles said. “I have no problem saying he’s a player we’d like to get back.”
Chicago’s defense will certainly look different next year, but Byard should be a priority.
