Tennessee Titans safety Kevin Byard is one of the best players in the NFL, not just at his position.

Despite this, the two-time All-Pro selection made a crucial and mature decision to restructure his contract in order to help facilitate the signing of five-time Pro Bowl selection DeAndre Hopkins. With Byard’s help, Titans were able to fit Hopkins deal under the cap with a two-year, $26 million that could reach up to $32 million in incentives.

Byard would discuss his decision as the Titans wrapped up their first day of training camp, pointing to his leadership status and the simply desire to win more football games after Tennessee went 7-10 last year.

“At the end of the day, it’s all about winning ballgames,” Byard says. “You kind of understand it as you get older as a player, the business side of football and being able to build a championship roster. And that’s what it’s about here, it’s about winning ballgames…”

“At times, it’s time to be selfish, but at the end of the day, it’s about building a team and I’m a team leader, and I want to win, first and foremost. I’ve said this multiple times: I want to help bring a championship to Nashville and that’s what we plan on doing this year.”

Article Continues Below
More Tennessee Titans News
Tennessee Titans Will Levis (8) speaks with the media during OTAs at Ascension Saint Thomas Sports Park in Nashville, Tenn., Wednesday, May 28, 2025.
Titans’ Will Levis admits situation ‘sucks’ after Cam Ward pickZachary Weinberger ·
May 10, 2025; Nashville, TN, USA; Tennessee Titans quarterback Cam Ward (1) goes through throwing drills during Rookie Mini Camp at Saint Thomas Sports Park. Mandatory Credit: Steve Roberts-Imagn Images
WR’s Cam Ward revelation will have Titans fans loving QB moreMike Gianakos ·
image thumbnail
Titans rookie who stood out most in 2025 minicampDouglas Fritz ¡
Dan Moore Jr.
Titans’ riskiest move in 2025 NFL offseasonDouglas Fritz ·
Tennessee Titans quarterback Will Levis (8) exits the field after losing 24-17 to the New York Jets in their home opener.
Steelers rumors: NFL analyst suggests Will Levis trade with TitansBenjamin Adducchio ¡
Tennessee Titans quarterback Cam Ward (1) throws a pass as he goes through drills during Rookie Mini Camp at Saint Thomas Sports Park.
Titans’ Cam Ward officially inks $48.75 million rookie contractBenedetto Vitale ·

Byard would also discuss what he believes Hopkins brings to the team.

“Different type of player,” Byard says. “An elite player. He’s been an elite player for a long time in this league.”

“Obviously, I’ve battled with him [for] years… Having a guy like him is big-time for us. Obviously to be able to mentor some of the young guys… giving Ryan [Tannehill] options… it just adds a new level as far as what defense has to gameplan…”