Kevin Byard has a brutally honest admission when asked whether or not he wants Lamar Jackson playing against the Bears
The Chicago Bears veteran defensive back is hoping for a big challenge in Week 8 against the Baltimore Ravens.
As the Chicago Bears get set for the Week 8 matchup against the Baltimore Ravens, one big injury storyline has dominated the conversation going into this game on Sunday and could be a big factor in preventing the Bears from winning a fifth consecutive game.
Former league MVP and Ravens’ starting quarterback Lamar Jackson is ramping back up to play again following a hamstring injury suffered in Week 4 and could potentially return to action as soon as this weekend.
Jackson’s return would make for a much tougher matchup for the Bears’ defense that’s playing among the league’s best, but against some lesser competition, and some players have a clear stance on how they feel about Jackson’s status.
Bears S Kevin Byard wants to face QB Lamar Jackson in Week 8
“Obviously, he’s one of the best players in our league. He’s dynamic. He’s, in my opinion, the best mobile quarterback in NFL history,” Bears safety Kevin Byard said of Jackson, via FOX 32 Chicago. “And obviously, my guy Derrick Henry who I got drafted with in Tennessee, that’s probably the most dangerous backfield in the NFL.
“This team is dynamic, they can put up points, and personally, I would rather Lamar play. I’ve played him a few different times. But, you want to go up against the best to be able to test our defense out against them. Expecting a heavy weight match… I’m excited about that matchup.”
During this four game win streak, the Bears have came away with 15 takeaways on defense, including four interceptions from Byard. With Jackson sidelined the last two games, the Ravens have turned the ball over six times. While it’s a favorable matchup if Jackson can’t go, the team would rather have the challenge to see how good the unit really is.
As for Byard, he’s been playing at an All-Pro level over the last four games for Chicago. His four interceptions this season is tied for the most in the NFL and that high level of play deserves more national praise.
Byard has faced off against Jackson twice in his career, both times with the Tennessee Titans. In those two matchups, Byard was targeted seven times but only had one pass deflection and did not record an interception. A big game against a quarterback like Jackson on Sunday could help with getting some more national attention.
Kevin Byard’s play in 2025 deserves to be recognized more
As a veteran player, sometimes you need some internal motivation to continue playing at a high level. For Byard, it’s been a specific goal that he’s already on pace to achieve this season.
“Going into this year, I wanted to break my previous (interception) mark that I had,” Byard explained. “My second year in the league, I had eight interceptions, so that was something I’ve always tried to set a standard to break that record. I’m already halfway there, so I upped it up to 10 interceptions. Twelve total turnovers is kinda what I’m aiming toward.”
Long-term, Byard knew he would no long-term security after the 2025 season and understood his future would have be a year-to-year evaluation when it comes to getting a potential extension in Chicago, as long as he continued to perform at a high level.
“My belief in myself and the confidence I’ve always had in my game has never waivered from year one to year 10,” Byard added. “Obviously, every single year I have to hit that number but the confidence has never waivered. I always have confidence in my ability to go out there and play this game at a high level.”
Through six games, he’s proved he still has some high level of play still left in the tank along with his leadership in the locker room. That’s something the coaching staff and front office should recognize as well, and reward him for, saying that level of play continues down the stretch. To me, he’s more than earned an extension to return for the 2026 season.
Chicago Bears News
Bears offensive coach shares his true feelings on DJ Moore amid speculation about his long-term future in Chicago
Chicago Bears veteran wide receiver DJ Moore received a lot of high praise for the way he’s battled in 2025.
