Growing up in West Philadelphia, Kevin Byard loved watching Brian Dawkins play for his hometown Philadelphia Eagles, writes Tom Ignudo for CBS News Philadelphia.

When Byard started playing high school football, he constantly watched YouTube highlights of the Hall of Fame safety. 

Byard, who plays the same position in his own right, is now a member of the Eagles — the same team that Dawkins carved out 13 of his 16-year NFL career. 

In addition, he also uses the same locker Dawkins did during his time with the team. 

Being a member of the Eagles means a lot to Byard.

“I’m excited to be back in my hometown where I was born and raised at, so it’s an exciting time for me right now,” he said.

Byard grew up on 52nd Street and Lancaster Avenue in West Philly and moved to eastern Georgia at 14. 

Today, Byard’s aunts and uncles still live in Philly, while his siblings are in Atlanta. 

Despite being on the Eagles for just over a week, Byard has acclimated well due to his previous friendship with Reed Blankenship and former Tennessee Titan teammate A.J. Brown. 

As his on-the-field role gets fleshed out, he can continue to build with his new teammates.

Learn more about the Eagles’ newest safety Kevin Byard in CBS News Philadelphia.

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