Bears News; Bears safety Kevin Byard looking forward to 'knocking Detroit off' top of NFC North

[Ditka]

The Chicago Bears defense is looking to take the next step toward becoming an elite unit in 2024. Following a rough start last season, the Bears defense ended the 2023 season on a high note as a top-10 unit. Players like Montez Sweat and Jaylon Johnson were big contributors, and they’re both locked in on long-term deals. The addition of veteran safety Kevin Byard is certainly a step in the right direction for an already talented, ascending secondary. When Byard met with the media for the first time Thursday, he shared his goal in joining Chicago’s defense: “Knock Detroit off their high horse” as the Bears look to reclaim the NFC North. After all, he’s already impressed with what he’s seen from this young secondary and former high school rival, Sweat. Kevin Byard says he knows a lot of the Bears secondary already given how much film he's consumed. Naming players by name, their traits. Says he knows Montez Sweat from his high school days (Sweat went to Byard's rival HS). The goal for Byard in joining the Bears D? "Knock Detroit… — Courtney Cronin (@CourtneyRCronin) March 14, 2024 But knocking off Detroit won’t be an easy feat. The Lions, fresh off an NFC Championship Game appearance, are clearly the team to beat in the NFC North — and the NFC. They have an explosive offense, a talented defense and a heck of a football coach in Dan Campbell. For the Bears, they’re still looking for their first winning season under head coach Matt Eberflus and general manager Ryan Poles. There was noticeable progress last season, but Year 3 will be key for this regime. There are still some questions along the defensive line — opposite Sweat off the edge and along the interior — and on offense — which is expected to feature a new rookie quarterback and still needs help at receiver. But if this defense can take a step forward, Chicago will be positioned to contend for a division title — and perhaps knock off the reigning division champs like Byard mentioned.
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