NFL Rookies that Buddy Ryan would have loved

We received some sad news this morning with the passing of former NFL coach Buddy Ryan.

He’s best known for his days as the Chicago Bears defensive coordinator and the head coach of the Philadelphia Eagles. His defenses were always extremely aggressive and among the best in the business.

Buddy Ryan was the architect of the 46 defense in Chicago which is arguably the best defensive of all time and helped lead the Bears to a 1985 Super Bowl Championship.

Do a quick search on the internet and you’ll see plenty of his former players speaking about his impact. The one that that sticks out is that he stressed toughness and wanted his defensive players to play with an edge.

This article looks at several NFL rookies that could’ve worked on a Buddy Ryan defense.

Joey Bosa, DL, San Diego Chargers

Bosa is a hard-nosed player who gives great effort. He does a great job playing with his hands and delivering an immediate jolt. His ability to make plays behind the line of scrimmage is something that would’ve fit in a Ryan defense.

Karl Joseph, S, Oakland Raiders

Despite his lack of size, Joseph was one of the biggest hitters in the 2016 NFL Draft. He is someone offensive players need to fear when working across the middle of the field. Joseph also doesn’t hesitate to come up and deliver a pop in the run game.

Keanu Neal, S, Atlanta Falcons

Neal was a bit of a surprise pick in the first round, but there’s no denying his physical nature. He is always looking to initiate contact. Neal flies around the field making plays sideline to sideline. Ryan would’ve loved his versatility and the fact he isn’t afraid to work near the line of scrimmage.

Jarran Reed, DL, Seattle Seahawks

Reed is a big-bodied defensive lineman who is impossible to move off the line of scrimmage. He someone who’s capable of occupying multiple blockers as well as make plays away from his frame.