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06/14/2012 06:56 PM

Jairus Byrd is Ready

By: Andy Young

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ORCHARD PARK, N.Y. — Since a rookie season in which he racked up nine interceptions, Jairus Byrd has developed into one of the more dependable players on the Bills defense.

Now entering his 4th season as the likely starter at free safety, Byrd says he still has room to grow.

"I'll try to improve on every asset of my game and actually taking my mental game to the next level. As in anticipation and things like that, reading formations,” said Byrd. “So that's the next step as well, but every area of my game can improve still."

One thing that could certainly help Byrd in that pursuit is a boost to the pass rush expected from newcomers Mario Williams and Mark Anderson. But the 25-year-old maintains he and the rest of the defensive backs still have to live up to their end of the bargain.

As a player on the back line of the defense, Byrd has a great view of the potential of the unit in front of him and just how strong the defense can become this season.

"I think we can be as good as we want to be. It's on us. As long as we do the right things, and everyone stays healthy. I know Mr. Nix and everybody's been talking about that - we have to stay healthy - and we can do big things.”