SCOUT.com NFL Q&A: DeMeco Ryans

DeMeco Ryans was named the 2006 NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year, so why wasn't he a first-round pick? Ryans discusses his experiences through the draft process, being a rookie in the NFL, and what he expects from himself and the Texans this season.

Chris Steuber: Were you surprised that you dropped into the second round? DeMeco Ryans: I wasn't surprised. I was projected to go in the late first round, early second round -- it kind of fell into that territory. Watching the draft and seeing other linebackers go before me was frustrating, you know? CS: What were your thoughts on the Scouting Combine? Ryans: It's different. It wasn't too bad. You have a lot of interviews, I think I interviewed with almost every team. I had like fifteen [interviews] one night and like thirteen [interviews] the next night. Once we got to the last day of the workouts, I was just relieved to have that behind me, because there was so much pressure and there is so much emphasis put into that. READ MORE

TEXANS: Five Things to Know

#5. Middle linebacker DeMeco Ryans is a star in the making. He had a sensational rookie year and looks even better heading into this season. Ryans has the speed and range you want in a modern-day middle linebacker. He attacks the football. It would be a shock if he doesn't get to the Pro Bowl this season.  READ THE TOP 5