08:42 AM EDT on Friday, April 14, 2006

Leading up to the NFL Draft, the Journal's Tom E. Curran will profile a player at a "need" position for the Patriots each day. New England has 11 picks in the draft, six in the first four rounds. The Pats' first-round pick is the 21st overall. Profiles are based on our own analysis and interviews, various draft resources and Pro Football Weekly's 2006 Draft Preview book.

TODAY'S PROFILE:

DEMECO RYANS

POSITION: Outside linebacker.

COLLEGE: Alabama.

HEIGHT: 6-foot-1.

WEIGHT: 236 pounds.

THE LOWDOWN

Ryans is a very productive linebacker who has started on the strong side for the last three years at Alabama. As a sophomore, he had 126 tackles, and had a 25-tackle game against Arkansas. Had 76 tackles, 12 for losses, and five sacks in 2005.

THE PROS

One of the most dependable, high-character players in this draft. He is smart and plays smart. He's got great instincts and good speed to go sideline to sideline. Really likes to compete and, according to Pro Football Weekly's Draft Preview, he's a "film junkie." He can cover some, he can rush some. Above all, he's consistent, and a coaching staff knows what it's going to get from him when he shows up every day -- maximum effort. A leader.

THE CONS

He's a good athlete, but not really outstanding in any one facet. Doesn't have great speed or deliver the mammoth hit. For what it's worth, Pro Football Weekly cited his "straight calves" as a weakness. If a team wants to attack him directly, he can be overwhelmed.

COULD HE BE A PATRIOT?

It's hard to find a player any better suited for the Patriots when it comes to work ethic, dedication and attitude. But it's just not clear whether he's worthy of spending a first- or even a second-round pick on because he's just not that outstanding in terms of size, strength or speed. If he's there in the third round, the Pats will be all over him, but the only profile he seems to fit for the Pats is that he has all the valued intangibles. For what it's worth, the Pats reportedly have met with him on two occasions.

COLLECTION OF CARDS

"Draft Card" will run every day between now and April 28, which is the eve of the NFL Draft. All entries are archived on projo.com at www.projo.com/patriots .