FS Jairus Byrd
Buffalo Bills
Height: 5-101/8, Weight: 207, Speed: 4.68

Notes: Was a standout three-year starter at left cornerback for Oregon, where he finished ranked second in Ducks history with 17 interceptions, before declaring early for the draft in 2009 and being drafted 42nd overall by the Bills. Stepped into the Bills' starting lineup at safety in place of an injured Donte Whitner and Bryan Scott in Week Four and has notched two interceptions in each of the last three games, tying an NFL record held by Dave Baker for consecutive games with two or more interceptions. Has notched 32 tackles, nine pass breakups and a league-best seven interceptions (tied with Saints FS Darren Sharper) through eight games. Has been nagged by a groin injury that could be related to the sports hernia surgery he had in July.

Positives: Great instincts and feel for the game. Possesses outstanding ball skills — sees the quarterback and adjusts to the ball like a receiver. Has very quick, natural hands and reacts quickly to tipped and overthrown balls. Tracks the ball very well over his shoulder and shows excellent concentration. Technically sound. Gets good positioning and leverages the back half. Has NFL pedigree — father Gill was a Pro Bowl defensive back and coaches for the Bears. Plays with confidence. Has a good, strong build and is a willing hitter.

Negatives: Lacks great range and top-end speed to blanket the field and struggles to recover if he does take the perfect steps and gets out of position, like he did on Thomas Jones' 54-yard cutback TD run in Week Six. Is still adjusting to the safety position and could be more aggressive supporting the run, where he has taken some questionable angles. Not overly physical. Underwent sports hernia surgery in the summer and has been nagged by the injury — must prove he can stay healthy for a 16-game season.

Summary: A college cornerback at Oregon who graded out as a first-round talent, Byrd slipped to the second round after clocking a time above 4.7 seconds in the 40-yard dash on some watches at his pro-day workout. However, he is a field-fast ballhawk and natural interceptor who has really blossomed upon stepping into the starting lineup as a result of injuries to Donte Whitner and Bryan Scott and brings great versatility to the secondary. Possesses the vision and short-area quickness to factor in the return game, although he has yet to contribute in that area.

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