Byrd underwent back surgery in May, was limited for much of training camp and did not look like his usual self on the field this season. A three-time Pro Bowl selection in Buffalo, Byrd was missing tackles and giving up big plays as a member of the Saints. It did not look like he was on the same page with defensive coordinator Rob Ryan and fellow safety Kenny Vaccaro. Rafael Bush, a highly paid backup that is more of a thumper than Byrd, will take over as the starter.