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Patriots Newcomer Draws High Praise From Defensive Coordinator Zak Kuhr originally appeared on NESN. Add NESN as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The New England Patriots added a major piece to their secondary this offseason by signing Kevin Byard.
Jaylinn Hawkins was a great player for the Patriots last season, but he signed with the Baltimore Ravens in free agency. The Patriots replaced him with a three-time All-Pro in Byard. Not only does Byard figure to be an upgrade on the field, but his experience and leadership are also important.
Byard has played 10 seasons in the NFL, so naturally, he is going to have plenty to say in meetings. He has been a captain seven times in his NFL career, but defensive coordinator Zak Kuhr has noticed that he is not trying to step on the leadership that's already present in New England.
“I’ve sat in the DB room quite a bit this spring during the individual meetings,” Kuhr said per MassLive's Chris Mason on Tuesday. “The great thing about KB is he understands that he’s not coming in here and it’s like, ‘Oh, you’ve been a captain of places and you should be the leader of this room.’ Has humility, earns the respect. But then also will throw in, ‘Hey, I’ve been in this league for 10 years. Here’s something you should look out for.’”
Byard's experience in the league should be a great asset for the younger players on the Patriots' defense. Specifically, Craig Woodson, who will be lining up next to Byard all season. Woodson started 15 games at safety last season, and the Patriots will be looking for him to take a second-year jump. Kuhr thinks Byard will help him do that.
“He’s been great with Craig,” Kuhr said. “He’s just a phenomenal person in the room and a phenomenal professional that’s a great role model.”
Woodson can learn a lot from Byard. He has been one of the best safeties in the NFL for the last 10 years, and if Woodson can learn to be like him, then the Patriots could have the best safety duo in the league.
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