Byron Cowart Bio
Byron Cowart is an American professional football defensive end currently signed with the New York Jets. He played college football for the Maryland Terrapins and Auburn Tigers. Cowart was selected by the New England Patriots in the fifth round of the 2019 NFL Draft and entered college as the top overall recruit according to ESPN and Rivals.
Early Life and Background
Byron Cowart was born on May 20, 1996, in Seffner, Florida, United States. He attended Armwood High School, where he gained national attention as a highly ranked football recruit. His early football development in Florida set the foundation for his collegiate and professional career.
During his high school years, Cowart was regarded as the number one overall recruit, which made him a highly sought-after prospect for college football programs. This status brought significant expectations as he transitioned to the next level.
Path to American Football
Cowart committed to Auburn University in 2015, entering college football with high expectations as the top recruit. However, he struggled to secure consistent playing time during his first two seasons with the Auburn Tigers.
After appearing in only the first two games of the 2017 season, Cowart left Auburn and briefly attended Hillsborough Community College near his Florida home. Later that year, he transferred to the University of Maryland to continue his college football career with the Maryland Terrapins for the 2018 season.
Byron Cowart Career
Early Career (2019–2021)
Byron Cowart was drafted by the New England Patriots in the fifth round, 159th overall, of the 2019 NFL Draft. He played in five games during his rookie season, gaining valuable experience at the professional level.
In the 2020 season, Cowart recorded his first career sack in a Week 14 game against the Los Angeles Rams. He was placed on the reserve/COVID-19 list in October 2020 but was activated shortly after. In 2021, Cowart began the season on the physically unable to perform list and was eventually waived by the Patriots in July 2022.
Journeyman Phase (2022–2024)
After leaving the Patriots, Cowart was claimed by the Indianapolis Colts in July 2022. The following year, he signed with the Kansas City Chiefs in March 2023 but was released in May. Shortly after, he signed with the Houston Texans in May 2023 and was released in August.
In September 2023, Cowart joined the Miami Dolphins practice squad but did not secure a reserve/future contract. In March 2024, he signed with the Chicago Bears, was released in August, re-signed to the practice squad, and promoted to the active roster in October.
New York Jets Era (2025–Present)
On March 13, 2025, Byron Cowart signed with the New York Jets. He was placed on injured reserve in August 2025 and was released by the Jets in December of the same year. This period marks the latest chapter in his professional career.
Playing Style and Strengths
Byron Cowart plays as a defensive end, utilizing his size and athleticism to pressure opposing quarterbacks. His early recruitment status reflected his physical potential and skill set, which he has developed through various team experiences in the NFL.
Notable Events and Milestones
Cowart’s first career sack in the NFL during the 2020 season stands out as a significant milestone. His journey through multiple NFL teams demonstrates resilience and adaptability in a competitive professional environment.
Byron Cowart Career Wins
While primarily a defensive player, Byron Cowart’s career highlights include his contributions to team defenses across several NFL franchises. His professional journey reflects steady participation rather than individual statistical dominance.
Other Wins & Performances
Cowart’s career includes valuable practice squad and active roster roles with multiple NFL teams, showcasing his ability to adapt and contribute in various defensive schemes.
Byron Cowart Family
Family Background and Racing Lineage
There is no publicly available information regarding Byron Cowart’s family background or lineage related to sports.
Personal Life
Details about Byron Cowart’s personal life, including marital status or children, are not publicly disclosed.
2025 Season Performance
The 2025 season saw Byron Cowart signing with the New York Jets, where he faced challenges including an injury that placed him on injured reserve. Despite these setbacks, his signing indicated the Jets’ interest in his defensive capabilities. His release later in the year reflects the competitive nature of NFL roster management.
Throughout the season, Cowart’s experience across multiple teams provided depth to the Jets’ defensive line, although he did not record significant on-field statistics during this period.