Patriots S Kevin Byard could rise on active NFL interceptions list

Matt Legros, Patriots WireMon, September 14, 2026 at 2:21 PM UTC

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New England Patriots safety Kevin Byard enters the 2026 NFL season with an opportunity to strengthen his position among the NFL’s most productive active ball hawks.

Byard has built a long track record of coming away with interceptions throughout his career. He has led the league in interceptions twice, first recording eight in 2017, followed by seven in 2025.

At the time of this article’s publishing, Byard ranks No. 2 overall among all active players in the NFL in interceptions with 36 behind Minnesota Vikings safety Harrison Smith.

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The veteran Byard is well-positioned to catch Smith on the all-time list and become the active leader in interceptions in 2026. He is playing alongside star corners Christian Gonzalez and Carlton Davis III, as well as safety Craig Woodson in New England’s secondary. His ability to read quarterbacks and close on the ball has made him a consistent threat to create new possessions for his team.

Byard is now settled in a Patriots secondary that has the potential to be more disruptive this season. New England will rely on Byard’s experience to help limit explosive plays. Consequently, every interception that he records this year will add to his tally on the all-time interceptions list while he helps the Patriots forge a defense built to catalyze a run to the Super Bowl.

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This article originally appeared on Patriots Wire: Patriots S Kevin Byard could rise on active NFL interceptions list

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Source: “AOL Sports”