Tennessee Titans safety Kevin Byard revealed on of his pre-game rituals during an Instagram Live interview with NFL Network’s Kay Adams: he likes to talk to the football.
It’s something Byard picked up from Hall of Fame safety Brian Dawkins, a player he idolized when he was younger.
Here’s Byard talking about his pre-game ritual.
Whatever Byard is doing before games, he should keep it up. After all, the former third-round pick has emerged as one of the best safeties in the NFL over the past few years.
And, apparently talking to the football is working, as it always seems to find its way to him. Since 2017, Byard has totaled 17 interceptions, the most of any defensive back in that span.
Prior to the 2019 season, Byard was inked to a five-year, $70.5 million contract, which at the time made him the highest-paid safety in the NFL.
It was well-deserved for a player who is a former Pro Bowler and first-team All-Pro, one of the premier safeties in the league and arguably the best defender on the team.
Byard will look to continue his success in 2020 as one of the leaders of a Titans team that is primed to make a deep playoff run once again.
