Get to know Saints rookie minicamp tryout JaVaughn Byrd

USA Today

11-05-2025

Get to know Saints rookie minicamp tryout JaVaughn Byrd The Northern Illinois standout makes his case to make this year's roster.
Meet JaVaughn Byrd. A standout defensive back from Northern Illinois who has his sights set on making a name for himself in the NFL. The 6-foot-1, 194-pound DB brings prototypical size to the position and fits the mold of what the New Orleans Saints have looked to add to their secondary. Like any minicamp invitee, Byrd faces an uphill battle to crack the final 53-man roster. However, his impressive resume, proven production and athletic profile could give him a real shot at sticking around.
Without further ado, here are five questions to get to know JaVaughn Byrd and his case to earn a spot on the Saints' 2025 roster:
Q: What makes JaVaughn Byrd an intriguing NFL prospect despite going undrafted?
A: Byrd checks off a lot of boxes for NFL teams. He was a 4-year starter and two-time second team All-MAC selection at Northern Illinois. His physical traits immediately jump off the screen and in testing standing at 6-foot-1, 194-pounds, with 33-inch arms (top 7% among DB prospects), while jumping a 34-inch vertical, and a 10-foot-5 broad jump. He's also known as a film junkie and student of the game. Teams specifically value his discipline on the field and his consistency, shutting down opposing top receivers from Power 4 schools.
Q2: How has Byrd's special teams ability impacted his league interest?
A: Byrd has made a clear impact on special teams, blocking multiple field goals and even returning one for a 90+ yard touchdown. That type of versatility is exactly what NFL coaches are looking for as they attempt to build depth on their roster. It's a big reason why Byrd has heard from a multitude of teams during the pre and post-draft process.
Q: What are Byrd's connections with the Saints?
A: Saints defensive coordinator Brandon Staley started his coaching career at Northern Illinois, so he knows firsthand the type of defenders the Huskies program produces. That familiarity, along with Byrd's strong game tape and work ethic, could have played a role in the team extending a minicamp invite to him.
Q: How did Byrd's play at NIU showcase his skill set?
A: Byrd's resume speaks for itself. He intercepted multiple passes in his career, while locking down the opposing teams top receivers week after week. His combination of footwork, arm length, and the ability to play the ball in the air helped NIU finish 4th in total defense nationwide in 2024, and he was a key contributor to their upset win over Notre Dame.
Q: What type of pre-draft and post-draft interest did Byrd receive?
A: Byrd had a strong pre-draft process, including participating in the Tropical Bowl, a workout with the Bears, and pre-draft talks with the Dolphins, Chiefs, and others. Post-draft, he earned minicamp invites from the Bears, Saints, Commanders, and Steelers.
As minicamp continues, Byrd will be given every opportunity to make his presence known along the Saints defense. With a strong impression early on, he could be setting himself up to make some hay come September.