Safety Kevin Byard has been at it for quite some time in the NFL. Following his 10th season in the league, Byard is hitting the open free agency market for the first time in his career, giving both he and the Chicago Bears a decision to make.
The Bears signed Byard to a two year deal worth $15 million ahead of the 2024 season. He performed to a Pro Bowl level in both campaigns, and is now looking for what will likely be his last chance to secure a longer term deal at 32-years-old.
Byard has confirmed that staying in Chicago is his first option, and that both he and the team have a “mutual interest” in reuniting heading into the 2026 season.
But Byard is also focused on making the best decision for his family.
“With the success that we all had this season as a team, I think a lot of guys on this team are going to be coveted around this league, honestly,” he said. “And I think the same way the organization is always going to do what’s best for the team, I think I owe that to my family as well.”
Byard’s Value Heading Into Free Agency
As it goes with any free agent in the back nine of their career in any sport, Byard is looking for length and security as he contemplates where to go next.
The three time All-Pro has racked up 36 interceptions in his 10 seasons in the league, and has consistently been amongst the top of the safety power rankings. His seven interceptions in the 2025 season proved that age isn’t yet a concern for Byard; he certainly did enough to prove to any interested bidders that his value remains as high as ever.
According to Spotrac, Byard’s market value is about the same as the contract he signed with Chicago before the 2024 season: two years at about $15.5 million.
If Chicago is committed to keeping Byard around, he could likely bump them up to three years with the right negotiating tactics. Now, Chicago could also go into negotiations believing they have a right to ask Byard to take a hometown discount, especially considering the Bears figure to be a Super Bowl contender for the foreseeable future.
Maybe there’s a middle ground to be reached.
Byard Looking to Play For a Winning Team
Knowing that his tenure in the NFL is drawing towards a close with each season that passes, Byard wants to be on a team with true Super Bowl aspirations, which the Bears are poised to have.
“I want to be able to play at a higher level and all that good stuff,” he said, “but what motivates me and what drives that is to want to win and try to be the best person, to be the best player, leader, teammate that I could possibly be for this organization — or any organization.”
In the Bears secondary, Byard is one of three players hitting unrestricted free agency this offseason, along with safety Jonathan Owens and cornerback Nahshon Wright.
Safety Kevin Byard Sends Clear Message on Bears Future Ahead of Free Agency