NASHVILLE – In their first year together in 2018, Titans safeties Kevin Byard and Kenny Vaccaro started to develop a bond.
The two picked up where they left off this offseason in OTAs and minicamp, and it's continued into the offseason.
Vaccaro invited Byard to Austin, Texas, so they could train together "to continue build that chemistry and camaraderie," Byard said. In an interview with Titans Online, Byard discussed their plans to train together at the end of minicamp.
Vaccaro joined the Titans during training camp last year after Johnathan Cyprien suffered a season-ending injury during practice. Vaccaro played well alongside Byard on a defense that finished the year ranked 3rd in the NFL in scoring defense in 2018, and eighth overall in total defense. The Titans signed Vaccaro to a multi-term deal in March after he signed a one-year deal last August.
"It's a sign of brotherhood," Byard said of working out with Vaccaro. "Not only is it a sign of friendship, but it's also a sign that it's not just about what's on the field, but it's about building that bond and friendship off the field. And I'm sure that will translate on the field as far as wanting to fight for your brother. I think that is the main thing we are trying to instill here."
Vaccaro has posted several photos on his Instagram page of the two players training together, the first with a caption that reads "bigger than ball."
Byard responded to that post with a comment "Iron sharpens Iron."
Vaccaro also posted a video on the two training together on Instagram.
Titans secondary coach Kerry Coombs said the chemistry between Byard and Vaccaro should continue to improve following an entire offseason of working together on and off the field.
The Titans report to training camp on July 25.
"Chemistry with all of those guys in that room is significant," Coombs said. "And they work really hard at it. And they're good people -- they are good men, husbands, fathers, and all those things you want. I am fortunate to be able to walk in the room and coach people like that. These guys like each other, and they root for each other and they coach each other up. It's a pleasure to watch them work."
