Bulls land Cardinal Newman linebacker Byrd

The USF offense has been very good in the first year under head coach Alex Golesh, but the defense needs a lot of help and defensive coordinator Todd Orlando added another potential piece of that puzzle with the commitment of Cardinal Newman linebacker Devon Byrd on Sunday afternoon.

Byrd was one of the first offers Orlando gave out and the six-foot-four linebacker will add some needed length at a major position of need in the 2024 class.

in the four games, there are stats available for Byrd playing this year, he has 28 tackles and five sacks.

"They have been on me since the beginning," said Byrd while explaining his decision. "They were my first offer, and have been loyal to me the entire time. The connection I have with the coaching staff really helped separate them from the other schools."

That connection with the coaches led to an exciting moment when Byrd gave them the news that he was ready to commit to the program.

"Coach Orlando, Coach Patrick, and head coach Alex Golesh were excited when I gave them the news," he said. "They were ready to do cartwheels!"

As for his fit in the defense, Boyd is prepared to go get the quarterback, something he believes he has excelled at throughout his senior season.

"The plan is for them to use me as an OLB with the technique they use with blitzers. With my speed and physicality, I am going to fit right into their scheme, doing what I do best."