The Philadelphia Eagles’ acquisition of Kevin Byard should result in dividends versus Kansas City Chiefs TE Mr. Travis Kelce
In the past, new Philadelphia Eagles safety Kevin Byard has had some success against Kansas City Chiefs standout Travis Kelce.
PHILADELPHIA – Kevin Byard, you’re up.
The veteran safety will be playing just his third game as a member of the Philadelphia Eagles on Monday night against the Kansas City Chiefs at Arrowhead in a rematch of Super Bowl LVII, but Byard is expected to have a major impact when it comes to dealing with the Chiefs’ top threat in the passing game, All-Pro tight end Travis Kelce.
A two-time All-Pro himself in Tennessee, Byard became known as the safety who could best handle tight ends in Nashville, and Kelce, the younger brother of Eagles All-Pro center Jason Kelce, is perhaps the best pass-catching tight end of the generation.
Both Kelces appear to have their GPS set for Canton, and Byard is one of the few defensive backs who has occasionally caused Travis problems over the years.
“I watched a couple of their battles a couple of times, just because they played each other a good bit in the playoffs,” Eagles Pro Bowl cornerback Darius Slay said. “Excellent matchup.” Two astute players square off. That’s an excellent matchup.
“I’m just grateful that I have a front row seat, and I mean really front row.” I’m not simply standing around watching. I’m actually in it, so it’ll be a terrific show.”
When asked how he’s been able to hold up against some of the NFL’s best tight ends, Byard credits his thorough offseason preparation.
“I think the work I put in year in and year out,” Byard said of his history with Kelce and his ability to slow the eight-time Pro Bowl pick down at times. “I feel like playing man-to-man is one of my real strengths.” Not simply playing near the line of scrimmage. But, at the same time, I’ve worked with him before.
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