The Houston Texans named linebacker DeMeco Ryans the teams 2011 Ed Block Courage Award recipient. Ryans, the six-year veteran was selected by teammates for his efforts both on the field and off the field and his ability to overcome adversity.
DeMeco suffered a season ending Achilles tendon injury in week six against the Kansas City Chiefs during the 2010 regular season. Ryans was having a career year up until that point leading his team in tackles with 54.
Throughout his rehabilitation Ryans remained in good spirits and took it upon himself to run the Texans’ new 3-4 defensive scheme at player-organized workouts last summer during the labor stoppage. In 2011 Ryans returned to action and finished the 2011 regular season with 60 tackles with six tackles for loss, four passes defended and a forced fumble in 15 starts.
Ryans will receive the award in Baltimore, Maryland on March 13,2012 at the Ed Block Courage Awards annual Banquet. The Ed Block Courage Award Foundation is dedicated to improving the lives of neglected children and ending the cycle of abuse. The purpose is to raise Awareness and Prevention of child abuse. That objective is coupled with the Foundation’s commitment to celebrating players of inspiration in the NFL.
Since its inception the Foundation through its charter with the Courage House National Support Network for Kids, and an affiliation with the National Football League and Professional Football Athletics Trainers Society has helped to provide hope to countless children and raised millions of dollars.
