https://player.anyclip.com/anyclip-widget/lre-widget/prod/v1/src/lre.js
The Chicago Bears made their first major signing of the offseason, agreeing to a two-year deal with former All-Pro safety Kevin Byard worth $15 million. The news was first reported by Josina Anderson of CBS Sports. Byard spent the first eight and a half years of his career with the Tennessee Titans and was traded last fall to the Philadelphia Eagles, but was released at the beginning of March. Now, he comes to the Bears to fill the void left by Eddie Jackson and joins a strong secondary.
Byard was drafted by the Titans in the third round of the 2016 NFL Draft and exploded during his second season when he had eight interceptions, which led to him earning All-Pro honors. He continued to be one of the better safeties in the game, totaling 27 interceptions in eight seasons. Last year, Byard was traded to the Philadelphia Eagles in hopes of boosting their injury-depleted secondary. He combined for just one interception and three pass breakups to go along with 122 total tackles in 2023.
The signing of Byard fills a need for the Bears ahead of free agency officially opening up. Because he was released by Philadelphia, he was free to sign at any point. Here is how fans (and players) reacted on social media to the news: