Nov 16, 2025; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Chicago Bears free safety Kevin Byard (31) runs for a gain following an interception during the second quarter against the Minnesota Vikings at U.S. Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeffrey Becker-Imagn Images Jeffrey Becker-Imagn Images

Patriots Reunite Mike Vrabel and Pro Bowler Kevin Byard

Originally posted on New England Patriots on SI
By Mike D'Abate | Last updated Mar 11, 2026 3:01 PM ET

The New England Patriots are bolstering their defensive backfield by adding a three-time All Pro safety to the Foxborough fold.

The Patriots, per NFL Network's Tom Pelissero, are signing veteran safety Kevin Byard to a one-year, $9 million deal. The Network’s report indicated that the deal was negotiated by Byard’s agent David Mulugheta of AthletesFirst.

Three-time Pro Bowl safety Kevin Byard is signing with the Patriots on a one-year, $9 million deal, per sources.

Deal negotiated @DavidMulugheta of @AthletesFirst. pic.twitter.com/HT25xrQlpD
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) March 11, 2026

Having second-year Craig Woodson solidified into a starting role, New England has opted for Byard’s veteran presence to anchor their secondary

Byard, a three-time Pro Bowl selection, played under Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel with the Tennessee Titans from 2018 to 2023. At that time, he was traded to the Philadelphia Eagles. The 32-year-old earned Pro Bowl and first-team All-Pro honors last season with seven interceptions with the Chicago Bears in 2025.

While early indications had the veteran safety likely to return to the Windy City, a short-term deal — reuniting him with Vrabel and some of his former Titans’ assistants — apparently enticed Byard to bring his talents to New England.

Byard has led the league in interceptions twice (in 2017, and 2025) throughout his career, while compiling 972 total tackles, six sacks, four forced fumbles, six fumble recoveries. 81 passes-defensed, 36 interceptions and two defensive touchdowns.

This article first appeared on New England Patriots on SI and was syndicated with permission.

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