Jairus Byrd will be one of the most sought after free agents on the market (Image Courtesy of Fansided.com)
Jeremy White of WGR 550 in Buffalo is reporting today that the Bills will not use the franchise tag on free safety Jairus Byrd. White also notes that while Byrd and the Bills have had “productive discussions,” Buffalo has also “explored all their options, including trade.”
Although recent reports suggested that contract negotiations between the two sides have been “pleasant,” it appears as though the former Oregon Duck will reach unrestricted free agency and test the market. The deadline to place the franchise tag on players is Monday at 4 pm. If the team and player fail to reach a contract, as it appears so, Byrd can begin talking to teams on March 8th, while the official signing period starts March 11th.
So it now appears that the Eagles will get their wish, as one of the top safeties will enter unrestricted free agency. The former second-round pick is a three time All-Pro and Pro Bowler while also leading the NFL in interceptions during the 2009 season. In five seasons Byrd has missed just seven games, including five last season. Despite missing time, the safety was still able to record four interceptions and 48 tackles.
With free agent negotiations set to begin on the 8th, the services for Byrd will be in high demand. Expect the Eagles to near the front of that list, despite general manager Howie Roseman indicating that the team will be conservative in free agency.
Hal Greenblatt covers the Eagles for Eagledelphia. Follow him on Twitter: @HMGreenblatt
