Two weeks after enduring a car accident that left him in the hospital, 
“Now that I have survived an accident and was drafted by the Chargers, I have so much motivation to play with this team,” Byrd recently said through his agent David Dunn. “I appreciate the Chargers for recognizing my hard work and helping me live out this dream. I promise you that I will work hard every day on and off the field.”
Byrd, who was selected by the Chargers in the seventh round of last weekend’s draft, was recently released from the hospital and says he’s feeling much better. The 6-0, 200-pound wide receiver is “blessed to be alive” following his accident and can’t wait to join his new team.
“I’m beyond excited to be a Charger,” Byrd said. “Words can’t express how grateful I am to be part of such a great team.”
Prior to the accident, Byrd was considered a mid-round prospect. Then on April 19, he was on his way to pick up his mother for church when he lost control of his vehicle and crashed into a pole. He was rushed to a Miami hospital where he was treated for minor cuts and bruises as well as head injuries.
Byrd’s injuries aren’t life threatening, and he’s expected to make a full recovery. While he was unable to attend the team’s recent minicamp, the former LSU star said that the opportunity to eventually join the Chargers will help push him through his recovery process.
“Getting drafted gave me a lot of encouragement, especially since I’ve been looking forward to this day ever since I started playing football,” Byrd said. “I’m ready for the NFL.”
