Byrd is already making his mark in the league in a big way. The three-game multiple-interception streak he brings into Sunday's road contest against the Tennessee Titans allowed him to equal the San Francisco 49ers' Dave Baker as only NFL players to accomplish that.

Byrd, who played cornerback at Oregon, made a seamless transition to safety. He aims for the record for consecutive multiple-pick games after swiping two passes apiece against the New York Jets, Carolina Panthers and Houston Texans. Baker totaled nine interceptions in a three-game span in 1960.

Byrd's seven interceptions overall are tied with the New Orleans Saints' Darren Sharper for the league lead. Jairus' father, Gill, was a two-time Pro Bowl cornerback during a San Diego Chargers career that stretched from 1983-92. He is now a defensive coach with the Chicago Bears.

USA TODAY takes a closer look at Jairus Byrd:

THE PLAYER

• Ht.: 5-10 Wt.: 200.

• Hometown: Clayton, Mo.

• College highlights: Showed aptitude for creating turnovers throughout 39-game Oregon career. Made 17 interceptions, tying him for second on school's all-time list. Also forced four fumbles with two fumble recoveries. Totaled 203 tackles, including 143 solo hits. Credited with 53 passes defensed. All-Pac 10 first-team performer last season.

• Scouting report: It is no accident that he has already established himself among the league's elite at producing interceptions. Willing student who is very advanced in his understanding of the game. Is adept at anticipating routes. Has outstanding skills once ball is in the air. Lacks blazing speed but finds ways to compensate for that.

• Quotable: "We thought that he was a natural free safety and we thought that he had good ball skills. He could track the ball in the air like a baseball player. For him to progress this quickly like he has progressed, it has been a surprise." —Bills defensive coordinator Perry Fewell

THE PERSON

• Interception streak: "A lot of people have been surprised. I don't put a ceiling on what I can do. I try to prepare and I've gotten a lot of help from veterans."

• Any pressure from streak? "I'm really just having fun with it and taking it in stride."

• Biggest adjustment: "Learning angles I can take to the ball for interceptions and where I fit in stopping the running game."

• Role model: "My parents (Marilyn and Gill). They instilled moral values in me, what to do and what not to do."

• Best advice: "My father always tells me, 'Take the meat and throw the bone out. Take whatever information is good for you and what is not useful, throw it out.'"

• Greatest strength: "Probably my ball skills, using my anticipation to get where I need to be."

• Greatest weakness: "Overall knowledge of the game."

• Head coach Dick Jauron: "I can't say enough about the type of coach he is. He's a class act. It's unfortunate we haven't been able to win more games, but I'm confident and sticking behind the guys we have here. We just have to win games, and that's on us."

• Life after football: "I want to get into acting, acting in films and things like that."

• NFL dream: "Just to be the best. If you play the game, you want to be the best."

Enlarge By Don Heupel, AP Bills rookie Jairus Byrd is tied for the NFL lead in interceptions with seven.