As a senior in high school, DeMeco Ryans recorded 135 tackles, 11 sacks, 2 forced fumbles, and picked off two passes on his way to first team all-state honors. Not only was he a great athlete, DeMeco was an outstanding student who was named to the academic all-state team. Coming out of high school, DeMeco was widely considered to be the top linebacker prospect in the state of Alabama and one of the top prospects in the country at his position. He accepted a scholarship to attend the University of Alabama, where he was one of only two true players to see time as a true freshman that year, picking up 27 tackles in a reserve role. DeMeco started at strong side linebacker against Hawaii the final game of his freshman season, a position he would hold onto for the next three seasons. His sophomore year was a breakout year for Ryans. He recorded 126 tackles on the year which was good for the second best season in Crimson Tide history. He also picked up 1 ½ sacks and a forced fumble. His 25 tackles against Arkansas was a single-game school record. As a junior Ryans totaled 78 tackles and two forced fumbles on his way to second team All-SEC honors. DeMeco had a chance to enter the 2005 NFL draft with some projecting him to go as high as the second round; however he decided to return for his senior season to finish his college degree. As a senior Ryans led the defense that helped the Crimson Tide to a 9-2 regular season record, picking up 69 tackles, 3 ½ sacks, 1 interception and a forced fumble along the way. In addition to being an excellent football player at Alabama, DeMeco Ryans has also been an outstanding student as well. He has maintained a 3.7 grade point average and was named academic All-SEC all four seasons. Additionally Ryans received the 2005 Arthur Ashe sports scholar award for his accomplishments on the field as well as in the classroom. DeMeco is also a high character guy who has been very active in the community.

DeMeco Ryans is a very intelligent linebacker who does a good job of reading and reacting to what the offense is doing. He possesses the athleticism you look for in a linebacker, has good change of direction ability and can make plays sideline to sideline. His speed allows him to effectively cover most tight ends and running backs coming out of the backfield. He has the ability to get into the backfield and chase the running back down from behind. DeMeco is always quick to get to the football due to his quick first step and the fact that he takes good angles to the ballcarrier. He displays good overall technique and is a fundamentally sound tackler. To have the same kind of success at the next level, DeMeco may need to bulk up some and increase his strength. Increasing his strength should improve his ability to shed blockers. In college he ran around too many blocks. He needs to be stronger at the point of attack in the NFL. DeMeco is an excellent football player and a high character guy as well. He should easily be a first day pick with the potential to move into the first round with good workouts.