Life with an NFL Star: Two Homes and Kids in Different Schools

My name is Clarke Byard, and I am married to Kevin Byard III, a safety for the Chicago Bears. We share our lives between Tennessee and Chicago due to his demanding NFL schedule, and our children attend different schools as a result.

Meeting Kevin during high school was serendipitous. In 10th grade, while I was engrossed in my passion for dancing, he was making a name for himself on the football field. As our social circles eventually crossed, we began our journey together. By the following year, we hit a snag — I broke up with him as his dedication to football overrode our summer plans. But by senior year, our paths aligned once more, creating an unbreakable bond that has persisted for over 15 years, culminating in marriage in 2018.

Building Our Shared Life

Kevin and I both pursued higher education with him opting for college football in Tennessee and me attending Howard University in Washington, D.C. This period apart allowed us to grow individually. However, post-college, I faced a pivotal decision: whether to continue my life in D.C. or relocate to be by Kevin’s side in Tennessee, knowing that his career would always be a priority in our life decisions.

Once Kevin embarked on his professional journey, we established our residence in Tennessee. It became our home base filled with a supportive community, largely consisting of former athletes. Yet, with the nature of the NFL being as it is, my career opportunities were limited, mirroring the unpredictability faced by military families with frequent relocations.

Adapting to an NFL Lifestyle

Kevin's NFL career, now in its 10th season, dictates much of our family rhythm. We raise three young children: Eliana at six, Kevin IV at four, and two-year-old Amari. Kevin takes a very active role in parenting, even delivering our second child at home during an unexpectedly rapid labor. Although our roots are in Georgia, it’s Tennessee that we've come to call home, where Kevin launched his career and where we've invested in property.

When Kevin secured his role with the Bears, my initial plan was to stay back in Tennessee while he toiled through the NFL season. Despite hiring help to manage the kids, the distance was challenging for us all, prompting a new plan — renting in Chicago during the season. This lifestyle, where Eliana and Kevin attend school in both states to not lose their spots, is complex but necessary.

Community and Support Among NFL Wives

Navigating this lifestyle, I was supported by other NFL spouses, learning to embrace and thrive within its chaos. Now seasoned, I aim to extend this support to other wives, particularly newer ones. My children and I consistently attend home games, and the kids relish playing with their friends, children of other players. Supporting each other is vital.

Although I co-run our family foundation, my primary focus is on being present at home. Observing younger partners juggle numerous roles, I'm mindful not to stretch myself thin, ensuring my kids remain a priority.

Strategies for Family Time and Balance

Structured scheduling is essential for maximizing Kevin's limited downtime. A digital calendar now aids in reminding Kevin of family events, helping him be present however briefly he can. With his weekdays ending around 6 p.m. and our children off to bed shortly after, every moment with him counts. Fridays are often reserved for family activities, fostering cherished memories.

To further balance this dynamic, I've recently sought help in child care by hiring a babysitter, weighing the consideration of an au pair for additional support—all while pondering the implications of changing our living arrangements.

Ultimately, my heart is most fulfilled when I’m at home with my children, creating unforgettable experiences during these early years of their lives.