"While the 28-year-old Hawkins had his best season as a pro in 2025, finishing as the NFL's fifth-highest-rated safety by Pro Football Focus, his replacement, the 32-year-old Byard, likely gives the Patriots a better chance at making another deep postseason push in 2026."
"However, he struggled at times during the postseason, earning a PFF overall grade of just 57.4 through New England's first three playoff games, and the team ultimately decided not to bet on the California product being able to sustain the highs he achieved last year, allowing Hawkins to depart on a two-year/$10 million contract with the Baltimore Ravens."
"With the Chicago Bears in 2025, the 10-year NFL veteran recorded 93 tackles, four tackles for loss, eight pass deflections, and a league-leading seven interceptions he returned for 91 yards. Byard proved last year he still has plenty left in the tank even at this stage of his career, earning first-team All-Pro and Pro Bowl honors."
The New England Patriots signed 32-year-old Kevin Byard III to a one-year/$9 million deal, replacing incumbent starter Jaylinn Hawkins. While Hawkins had an exceptional 2025 regular season with 71 tackles, four interceptions, and an 82.4 PFF grade, he struggled in the playoffs with a 57.4 grade through three games. The Patriots chose not to retain Hawkins, who signed with Baltimore for two years/$10 million. Byard, a 10-year veteran, recorded 93 tackles and league-leading seven interceptions with Chicago in 2025, earning first-team All-Pro and Pro Bowl honors. Playing under Mike Vrabel, who coached him during his 2021 All-Pro season with Tennessee, Byard provides the Patriots with established excellence to support another postseason push.
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