DeMeco Ryans is number 6 on the countdown. He is the quarterback of the defense, and is a leader. Ryans is exactly what the Eagles needed, and is clearly an impact player. A team that has been linebacker needy, got their man and he came right in and performed. Although Ryans is aging, he sill has the skills to be a top linebacker in the NFL.
In his first season season for the Philadelphia Eagles, DeMeco Ryans led the team in tackles. He recored 113, and also had one interception. Ryans was the leader that the team has desperately needed, and is considered to be a great role model to the young players on the team. He has been criticized for being injury prone, but he has played in all 16 games except one season. That is incredibly impressive for a hard nosed verteran linebacker in the NFL.
While many people doubt Ryans, he is not really given the credit he deserves. He is a leader of not only the defense but the entire Eagles team. Ryans presence is certainly felt on the field, and he is only helping the Eagles by influencing the young guys. Ryans will stay put at his position even with the team switching to a 4-3. He is so efficient at stopping the run, and reading the offense. If he can stay healthy for yet another NFL season, then look for DeMeco Ryans to lead the Eagles in tackles and be the best player on defense.
[Photo: GCobb.com]
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