At linebacker, a position where instincts and toughness collide on every snap, senior JP Ryan has carved out his place as a leader of the Warriors’ defense. A player who brings energy and grit to the heart of the unit, Ryan’s journey has been molded not just by motivation, but also the impact of family and the bonds made with his teammates, who he lines up with every week.
That influence shows up both in Ryan’s mentality, and in his production on the field. He currently leads the Warriors in tackles per game and has already recorded two tackles for loss, showing his efficiency on the field. Still, Ryan says it’s the guidance of his brother and the support of his teammates that have shaped him most.
For Ryan, the family connection runs deep. His older brother once held the same position, and JP said watching him; and leaning on him during difficult times has been crucial to his improvement. “When I felt that I wasn’t having much fun in football my brother helped me get through that,” Ryan said. “I admire my brother and love the way he plays football. He inspires me and I play almost just like him.”
To add to the family connection, Ryan is also cousins with former standouts of the team, quarterback Anthony Rezac, and receiver/defensive back Teddy Rezac, both of which currently play at the prestigious Notre Dame.
That inspiration has fueled Ryan’s bond he shares with his current teammates. He said the best part of playing linebacker this season isn’t just making plays, but knowing he’s doing it alongside his closest friends. “I take the most pride in the brotherhood that we have in this year’s unit,” he said. “All my closest friends play on this defense with me and that’s what I love most about it.”
When it comes to carrying on Westside’s tradition of excellence, Ryan knows the standard is set high, and he embraces the challenge of meeting it. “This season I carry that standard by going 100% in every aspect of the game,” he said. This commitment means the Warriors can count on their senior linebacker to set the tone, both in preparation and on the field.
Ryan’s impact hasn’t gone unnoticed by those lining up beside him. As one of the leaders of the defense, his mentality and effort set the tone for the entire unit, especially among the linebackers. His teammates see his influence every day; Not only in the way he plays, but in the standard he holds the group to, both on and off the field.
Fellow senior linebacker Dom Velardi said what makes Ryan stand out is his work ethic and ability to bring energy to the defense. “JP is a very hard worker,” Velardi said. “He’s a vocal and motivating leader.” By keeping the unit locked in during practice, or rallying the defense after a big play, Velardi said that Ryan’s leadership keeps everyone disciplined.
That accountability is complemented by Ryan’s consistency on the field. Velardi said he never has to worry about what Ryan is doing because he can always be counted on to do what he’s supposed to. “He’s very reliable, and I can trust that he’s doing his job,” Velardi said. That reliability allows the linebackers to play with more confidence and aggressiveness, knowing Ryan will be in the right spot.
The connection goes beyond football. Sharing the heart of the defense with Ryan during their final season has made the experience much more meaningful. “It’s fun to work and play with a good friend of mine,” he said. The friendship between the two seniors has helped create the bond at linebacker, reflecting the brotherhood Ryan himself values.
Through four games, Ryan has been the driving force of Westside’s defense, leading the team with 7 tackles per game. He’s also added six tackles for loss and a fumble recovery, showing his ability to make plays behind the line and shift momentum in key moments. His production has matched his leadership, giving the Warriors a steady presence in the middle of the field.
The team has carried toughness and discipline into every matchup, which has created their perfect 4–0 start. Now, they shift their attention to Omaha Central (3–1), a strong team with the talent to test Westside’s defense and push Ryan’s unit to stay sharp.
For Ryan, it’s another chance to set the standard. His ability to balance leadership with consistent production has made him one of the driving forces behind Westside’s early success, and as the season continues, his role will only grow. With every snap, he’s proving that the Warriors can rely on him, not only to make plays, but to set the tone for the team’s goal of another deep postseason run.
