Trending Now - Patriots Sign Kevin Byard, NFL Interceptions Leader

WHO:

Kevin Byard III, safety, New England Patriots

Mike Vrabel, coach, New England Patriots

Tennessee Titans, Chicago Bears, Philadelphia Eagles, NFL

WHAT:

Kevin Byard signed a one-year contract worth $9 million with the New England Patriots.

Byard led the NFL with seven interceptions in 2025.

Byard was named first-team All-Pro and selected to the Pro Bowl for the third time in 2025.

Byard recorded 93 tackles, eight passes defended, and four tackles for loss in 2025.

Byard has logged 164 consecutive regular-season appearances with 155 starts and played nearly 100% of defensive snaps (1,070) in 2025.

Byard has posted at least four interceptions in six of his ten seasons.

Byard's 36 career interceptions rank second among active players.

WHERE:

New England Patriots, Chicago Bears, Tennessee Titans, Philadelphia Eagles

WHEN:

Byard was drafted in 2016 by the Tennessee Titans.

Byard played for the Tennessee Titans from 2016 to 2023.

Byard signed with the Chicago Bears in 2024 on a two-year, $15 million contract.

Byard was traded midseason to the Philadelphia Eagles in 2023.

WHY:

The signing addresses the Patriots' need for more playmakers on defense.

HOW:

Byard's signing reunites him with coach Mike Vrabel, who coached him with the Tennessee Titans from 2018 to 2023.

(UPDATED March 11, 2026 23:08 UTC)

In a significant move for their defense, the New England Patriots have signed safety Kevin Byard to a one-year contract worth $9 million. Byard, who led the NFL with seven interceptions last season and was named first-team All-Pro, reunites with coach Mike Vrabel, who previously coached him during his time with the Tennessee Titans. With a remarkable track record of 164 consecutive regular-season appearances and 36 career interceptions, Byard's addition aims to bolster the Patriots' defensive playmaking capabilities.