Top 10 Texans Draft Successes - #2: DeMeco Ryans

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The first pick of the 2nd Round in the glorious 2006 draft was a linebacker out of Alabama, DeMeco Ryans.  At the time, I thought Ryans to be a solid but not spectacular pick.  Having watched a lot of USC football, I was actually a fan of taking LenDale White with the pick, largely because I couldn't handle watching Ron "Three Pies and a Cloud of Meringue" Dayne three-yard-gain his way through another season again once it was apparent Domanick Williams' chances of returning were nearing nil.  But, all things considered, I was more than happy to have Ryans on board  Of course, in the 6th Round, we nabbed the unforgettable Wali Lundy.  Wait, who?

Here's an absolutely fascinating take by a scout on Ryans before we jump together.

Ryans announced his presence with authority in his first game, tallying 12 solo tackles in a striking debut.  DeMeco would go on to collect 156 tackles for the season, 126 of which were solo, to wind up second in the league.  Ryans' season would earn him the 2006 Defensive Rookie of the Year, making him the first Houston Texans' one-time winner in team history.  In 2007, Ryans would put up another fantastic season with 128 tackles, and he not only earned a Pro Bowl slot, but he was named an NFL All-Pro.  Ryans would also make the Pro Bowl in 2009.

Cap'n Meco has been a leader on and off the field.  He graduated cum laude from Alabama and continues to give to his alma mater.  Obviously, Ryans' 2011 will be huge after his Achilles injury suffered in 2010.  Ryans has been one of my favorite Texans since he entered the league, and I'd love to see him hang up the cleats after a 12-year career with your Houston Texans.

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