With a need at safety, the Green Bay Packers are likely to keep an eye on any free agents and see where they wind up. If the Packers are keeping a watch on All-Pro safety Kevin Byard, they will soon learn that the division foe Chicago Bears have invited him on a visit. This might start a battle amongst the historic organizations as they try to get a talented defensive back.
Kevin Byard Looks For A New Team
When the Philadelphia Eagles traded for Kevin Byard during the 2023-24 NFL season, they were likely hoping to re-sign him to a lengthier contract. Fortunately for the Green Bay Packers, such a deal was never made, instead electing to release Byard a year before his contract expires.
Given his NFL talent, he will have a large market. Although Byard had a shaky season in 2023, allowing 47 completions on 59 targets, it appears he may be fading at age 30. He was a member of the NFL’s worst secondary unit last season, allowing the second-most receptions per game. Byard was on the back end of subpar cornerback play, which can inflate some of the safety’s inferior statistics
Pro Football Focus rated him 74 for the 2023-24 season, more than any other safety who played significant snaps for the Green Bay Packers. Kevin Byard, who earned All-Pro accolades in 2017 and 2021, has demonstrated consistent great defensive back play over the years. With 28 interceptions in his career, the young safety has established himself as a skilled back with strong ball productivity.
Despite his age, the Green Bay Packers are likely to show interest in the All-Pro talent-free agent. However, it does not appear to be without competition.
The Chicago Bears invite Kevin Byard to visit.
Given the Green Bay Packers’ history with the Chicago Bears, as well as the fact that they must face each other twice a year, the Packers would most likely prefer the Bears to avoid potential great players. However, according to NFL expert Ian Rapaport, the Chicago Bears appear to be taking proactive steps to sign the outstanding safety.
This may be a wake-up call for the Green Bay Packers, who were planning to pursue Byard later after making offers to other potential safety. It may push Green Bay to begin discussions sooner in order to sway Kevin Byard away from the nearby opponent.
