I think it's still early to put Byard in that elite category but he's headed in that direction if he maintains his level of play. Reed started all 16 his first year while Troy and Byard had to wait till year 2 but If you look at all 3 players in their first 2 seasons as full starters they are all pretty consistent. Arrow is definitely pointing up for Byard that's for sure.
Polamulu 04 int 5, 1 pick 6,14 PD, 1 FF ,1 sack , 96 tackles, 67 solo
05 int 2 ,1 FF, 1 FF TD, PD,8 , 3 sacks,91 tackles,73 solo
2 pro bowls, 1 first team all pro
Reed 02 int 5, 1 sack, 12 PD,85 tackles, 71 solo
03 int 7, 1 pick 6,15 PD, 1 FF, 1 sack, 71 tackles, 59 solo
1 pro bowl
Byard 17 int 8, 2 FR, 16 PD, 87 tackles, 62 solo
18 int 4 , 2 sacks, 8PD, 90 tackles, 62 solo
1 prow bowl, 1 first team all pro