Byron Cowart

Byron Cowart (born May 20, 1996) is an American football defensive end for the Chicago Bears of the National Football League (NFL). He played college football at Maryland and Auburn and was drafted by the New England Patriots in the fifth round of the 2019 NFL Draft. Entering college, he was regarded as the #1 overall recruit by ESPN and Rivals.

College career
Cowart was the #1 high school recruit and committed to Auburn in 2015. However he struggled to get playing time in his first two seasons. After appearing in the team's first two games, Cowart left Auburn early in the 2017 season and attended Hillsborough Community College (HCC) near his Florida home. In December he announced he was transferring to Maryland for the 2018 season.

New England Patriots
Cowart was drafted by the New England Patriots in the fifth round (159th overall) of the 2019 NFL Draft. He played in five games as a rookie.

Cowart was placed on the reserve/COVID-19 list by the team on October 12, 2020, and was activated on October 21.

In Week 14 of the 2020 season against the Los Angeles Rams on Thursday Night Football, Cowart recorded his first career sack on Jared Goff during the 24–3 loss.

On August 31, 2021, Cowart was placed on the reserve/physically unable to perform list to start the season. On July 22, 2022, the Patriots waived Cowart.

Indianapolis Colts
On July 23, 2022, Cowart was claimed by the Indianapolis Colts.

Kansas City Chiefs
Cowart signed with the Kansas City Chiefs on March 24, 2023. He was released on May 10, 2023.

Houston Texans
On May 18, 2023, Cowart signed with the Houston Texans. He was released on August 29, 2023.

Miami Dolphins
On September 19, 2023, Cowart was signed to the practice squad of the Miami Dolphins. He was not signed to a reserve/future contract after the season and thus became a free agent upon the expiration of his practice squad contract.

Chicago Bears
On March 18, 2024, Cowart signed with the Chicago Bears.