Kevin Byard Bio
Kevin Leon Byard III is an American professional football safety for the Chicago Bears of the National Football League (NFL). He played college football for the Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders and was selected by the Tennessee Titans in the third round of the 2016 NFL Draft. In 2017, his second season in the NFL, Byard was selected to the Pro Bowl and was named a first-team All-Pro after co-leading the NFL in interceptions and leading the NFL in takeaways with ten. Byard was traded to the Philadelphia Eagles in 2023 before joining the Bears in 2024.
Early Life and Background
Kevin Byard was born on August 17, 1993, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. After his parents divorced when he was 14, Byard moved to Atlanta, Georgia, with his mother and siblings. He attended Martin Luther King Jr. High School in Lithonia, Georgia, where he participated in both football and track. Byard’s early exposure to sports laid the foundation for his future career in football.
Path to American Football
Byard played for the Middle Tennessee State Blue Raiders from 2012 to 2015. He was redshirted in 2011 and earned Honorable Mention All-Conference USA honors in 2013. In 2014 and 2015, he was named First-team All-Conference USA, and his 19 career interceptions are the most in school history. Byard graduated from Middle Tennessee in May 2015 with a degree in liberal studies, which further showcased his commitment to both academics and athletics.
Kevin Byard Career
Early Career (2016–2017)
The Tennessee Titans selected Byard in the third round (64th overall) of the 2016 NFL Draft. He was the 24th player ever drafted from Middle Tennessee State and the highest player drafted from there since Tyrone Calico in 2003. Byard signed a four-year, $3.63 million rookie contract with the Titans on July 18, 2016. He entered training camp as a candidate for a starting safety role and made his professional regular season debut in the season-opening loss to the Minnesota Vikings, where he recorded five solo tackles. Byard finished his rookie year with 58 combined tackles, a sack, and four pass deflections in 16 games and seven starts.
Breakthrough (2017–2018)
Byard’s breakout season came in 2017 when he finished with 87 combined tackles, 16 pass deflections, and led the league in interceptions with eight. His performance earned him first-team All-Pro honors and a Pro Bowl selection. Byard’s ability to make impactful plays was evident as he recorded two interceptions in a single game against the Baltimore Ravens, becoming one of the few players in NFL history to achieve such a feat. He continued to solidify his reputation as a top safety in the league.
Notable Works and Milestones
Byard’s signature work includes his remarkable 2017 season, where he was named a first-team All-Pro and selected to the Pro Bowl. He was also recognized as the NFL interceptions co-leader that year. His jersey number 20 was retired by the Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders, honoring his contributions to the program.
Kevin Byard Award Nominations
Throughout his career, Kevin Byard has received several nominations for prestigious awards, including multiple Pro Bowl selections and All-Pro honors, showcasing his excellence on the field.
Kevin Byard Awards Won
Kevin Byard has won numerous awards, including being named a 2× First-team All-Pro and a 3× Pro Bowl selection. His achievements reflect his status as one of the premier safeties in the NFL.
Kevin Byard Family
Kevin Byard is married to Clarke Conner, and they have two children together. Their daughter, Eliana Rose, was born on August 22, 2019, and their son, Kevin IV, was born on August 23, 2020.
Personal Life
Byard is a Christian and is often referred to as the “Mayor of Murfreesboro,” a nickname that reflects his connection to his college town. His family life and community involvement are important aspects of his identity, contributing to his reputation both on and off the field.
