Super late to the ball game on this journalistic essay, but forgive me. I spent four days at the Best Western Heritage Inn in Chattanooga covering the Scenic City Invitational. Anyone who’s ever survived that weekend knows what a vacuum of time and space it can be. So, I’m catching up on some takes I’ve been sitting on since last week. Today, we’re going to talk about Kevin Byard.
The absolute disrespect the former All-Pro safety for the Tennessee Titans got by the NFL’s Top 100 players list is complete and utter bullshit. Left off with nothing more than a mention in the ‘notable snubs’ section. Like I said, that’s some bull ass shit. I said on a recent episode of The Unofficial Titans Podcast that I think Byard has a strong argument to be the best safety in the entire NFL. Let me elaborate on that for y’all.
After three years in the NFL, Byard already has a first-team All-Pro -AND- Pro Bowl season under his belt (2017). Over the last two seasons, no one in the NFL has more interceptions than Byard’s 12.
A lot of folks hear Byard’s name and think of him as the traditional centerfielder type of based on that interception number. And, while it is a strong suit of his game – the man can cover anyone in the league – that’s not the book on Byard.
Dude’s an underrated hitter and run stuffer. People don’t appreciate just how hard and well he tackles. So far in his career, he’s been third on the team in terms of total tackles EACH SEASON.
But, he’s also a leader and a student of the game, drawing praise from Dick LeBeau for his ability to quickly pick up defenses. For routinely being in the right place at the right time.
The comparison that comes to mind for me is Ed Reed. A headhunter that’s going to make plays and understand the game like few can. He’s one of the most well-rounded players in the league, and right now, I’d take him over any other safety.
The Titans rewarded Byard by making him the highest paid safety in the league. So, how in the hell y’all gonna leave this mans off any ‘best of’ list?!?! DMNDS – don’t make no damn sense.
Put some respect on this man’s name.
Stoney Keeley is the Editor in Chief of The SoBros Network. He is a strong supporter of Team GSD and #BeBetter. “Big Natural” covers the Tennessee Titans, Nashville, and a whole wealth of nonsense. Follow on Twitter @StoneyKeeley
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