CHARLOTTE – The connection between football and family runs deep for Jairus Byrd.
Now, he can connect with family while running around the Panthers' football facilities.
The three-time Pro Bowl safety who signed with the Panthers on Tuesday is the nephew of assistant defensive backs coach Richard Rodgers.
"His mother is my sister," Rodgers said. "It's awesome. I think he's a great person along with being a good player. It's a great opportunity to be able to coach him and just a blessing. I think he'll be a great addition."
A family reunion was a possibility for Byrd in numerous NFL cities.