DeMeco Ryans' Coaching career: From NFL star to an elite coach

DeMeco Ryans has become one of the key members of the San Francisco 49ers' coaching staff. The defensive coordinator has contributed immensely to their success over the years and has led them to the NFC Championship game this season.

However, Ryans' meteoric rise as a coach doesn't come as a surprise as he was one of the top linebackers in the country during his playing days. The 38-year-old is now being linked with a head coaching job at a few NFL teams, including the Denver Broncos and Houston Texans.

As a coach, Ryans has a 52-46 regular-season record and a 6-2 record in the playoffs. He has spent six years as a coach, all of which have been with the 49ers.

Ryans began his stint with San Francisco as a defensive quality control coach in January 2017. The following year, he was promoted to the team's inside linebackers coach.

After three seasons, Ryans was promoted to the role of the Niners' defensive coordinator in January 2021.

DeMeco Ryans' NFL career and honors

DeMeco Ryans playing for the Houston Texans

DeMeco Ryans was picked by the Houston Texans in the 2006 NFL Draft. He won Defensive Rookie of the Year after an impressive showing for the team.

He also earned two Pro Bowl honors before joining the Philadelphia Eagles in 2012. The linebacker spent four seasons with the Eagles before hanging up his cleats to move into coaching.

In total, Ryans finished his NFL career with an impressive 971 tackles, 13.5 sacks, seven forced fumbles, seven interceptions, and one defensive touchdown.

Following an impressive season as the Niners' defensive coordinator this year, Ryans is being considered as the next head coach for the Texans. The Houston outfit fired Lovie Smith after a terrible campaign and are reportedly weighing a reunion with Ryans.

However, Ryans will need to focus on his current role in San Francisco as the team is set to take on the Philadelphia Eagles in the NFC Championship on Sunday.