The Eagles finally got a middle linebacker like everybodys been screaming for. And if he lives up to expectations, DeMeco Ryans will be a significant addition to the middle of the Eagles defense.
After starting slow in the Houston Texans newly installed 3-4 defense in 2011, Ryans picked up steam down the stretch and was a force. Hes been deemed medically fully recovered from an Achilles injury he suffered in 2010.
With Ryans in the middle, Im anticipating the Eagles will move Jamar Chaney to the strong side, and Moises Fokou to the weakside. Look for Brian Rolle to make the battle at weakside interesting.
Everything looks great on the surface right nowbut a small part of me wonders why the Texans were willing to give up a two-time Pro Bowler who is still in the prime of his career (he will be 28 in July) for so little. Was it to free up money? Or is there something weve overlooked? Only time will tell.
Right now, however, is the time to breathe a huge sigh of relief. Ryans could be the second coming of Jeremiah Trotter. Im hoping thats the case, and hes not just another body passing through the Eagles system like Joe Mays, Omar Gaither or Stewart Bradley.
E-mail Derrick Gunn at dgunn@comcastsportsnet.com