STRENGTHS Transitioned from outside to inside in 2014. Highly productive downhill tackler. Has burst to the ball. Gap-responsible and tackles through his targets. Possesses straight-line speed to chase from sideline to sideline. Second-effort worker. Good in zone coverage. Team captain. Known as a prolific film-eater who spent hours studying and learning offensive tendencies with defensive coordinator. Can play multiple linebacker spots and can fit in just about every scheme.
WEAKNESSES Can become a block magnet and stays wired for too long before disengaging. Despite the film work, still needs to improve on diagnosing and reacting quicker from inside. Very average lateral movement and footwork. Plays through a straw and is a little tight when asked to change directions. Overly aggressive. Breaks down in space a shade late and will miss tackles because of it. Suffered a torn ACL, causing him to miss action in 2013.
DRAFT PROJECTION Round 4 or 5
NFL COMPARISON Desmond Bishop
BOTTOM LINE He's got the size, physicality and commitment to film work to play inside, but his instincts still need work. Ryan is a little stiff and stays blocked for too long, but his disengagement from blocks will improve with more reps inside. Faster than quick, he is scheme versatile and can fit inside or at the SAM linebacker spot in a 4-3. Ryan's productivity comes from toughness, play demeanor and physical tools. Teams could pigeonhole him as a "try-hard" linebacker, but they shouldn't.