DeMeco Ryans Eagles: Stud LB Will Plug Huge Hole for Philly

The Eagles had a huge hole at LB, but that void has been filled by former Pro Bowler DeMeco Ryans. The Eagles acquired him in a trade with the Houston Texans, and now, they can turn their sights towards other areas of need.

There is some reason for concern, as he did suffer a ruptured Achilles tendon in 2010. He returned for the Texans last year, making only 64 tackles, which is about half of the total the Texans had come to expect from him.

I attribute the falloff to a change from the 4-3 to a 3-4 scheme. He had never played with only three down linemen in front of him, and he wasn't as effective.

Placing him back in a scheme that fits his talents should restore him to his previous status as a solid inside linebacker. There is no area the Eagles needed to address more than this one.

The Eagles surrendered 112 yards per game on the ground in 2011, and mediocre play up the middle is a big part of that. Jamar Chaney is an adequate backup, but he isn't the type of presence, playmaker and run-stopper the Eagles need at MLB.

If Ryans is healthy and back to form, he brings that presence.

From 2006-2009, Ryans averaged 130 tackles per season; he forced five tackles and picked off two passes as well. He's only 27 years old, so aside from the injury, he should be in the prime of his career.

This allows the Eagles to go after a DT with their first-round pick to further solidify the run defense, or even someone on the offensive side of the ball.

DT Dontari' Poe made tons of waves at the combine with his performance, but the Eagles may have to trade up into the top 10 to draft him. Michael Floyd is a 6'4", 230-pound WR that would give Mike Vick something he hasn't had in Philly: a big target.

If Ryans is right, as I believe he will be, it's a great get for the Eagles.