The Chicago Bears lost a few key players in free agency this season as they are overhauling the defense. Among the losses was All-Pro safety Kevin Byard.
In his second season with the Bears, Byard had one of the best seasons of his career. He finished with seven interceptions and was a leader on the Bears’ defense. While both sides expressed interest in a return, it ended up not happening. Instead, the Bears signed Coby Bryant and a few days later, Byard joined the New England Patriots.
It was a bit of a surprise that Byard didn’t return and now we know why he picked New England.
Kevin Byard on why New England Patriots were the right fit
Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
Byard met the media in New England for the first time since signing there, reuniting with his former coach Mike Vrbael. It was reported that he was down to the Bears and Patriots as he ended up picking the AFC Champion.
“I just think that the culture of this team, this organization, obviously a winning culture, but, I think the pieces that they have in place,” Byard said. “I think it makes it very attractive for any free agent want to come here”
Kevin Byard Explains Why #Patriots were his top destination if he left #Bears in Free Agency:
“I just think that the culture of this team, this organization, obviously a winning culture, but, I think the pieces that they have in place…I think it makes it very attractive for any… pic.twitter.com/Yq6qLQPpGo
— Patriots on CLNS (@PatriotsCLNS) March 12, 2026
Byard didn’t take any shots at his former team and he had a connection with the Patriots, so it’s easy to see why he joined there. It’s disappointing the Bears are losing that leadership but it goes with the theme of them wanting to get faster, especially on that side of the ball.
Now, the hope is that the Bears made the right decision and potentially find an upgrade at the position with Bryant. But only time will tell.
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