Ryan Kees

Ryan Ed Kees (born April 2, 1985 in Eagan, Minnesota) is an American football defensive end who is currently a free agent. He was signed by the Detroit Lions as an undrafted free agent in 2009. He played college football at St. Cloud State.

Kees has also played for the California Redwoods and Arizona Cardinals.

Early years
Ryan learned of his talents as a football player while playing in E.A.A. (Eagan Athletic Association) and his skills excelled while playing for Eagan High School in Eagan, Minnesota where he played defensive end. As a high school student Ryan donated his time to E.A.A. football by refereeing games for 3rd-6th graders.

College career
Kees played college football at the St. Cloud University. Several accolades Kees has received are DII First Team All American (2008), 2 Time NCC All-Conference, 1 Time NSIC All-Conference, and St. Cloud State Male athlete of the year ('09)

Detroit Lions
After going undrafted in the 2009 NFL Draft, Kees signed with the Detroit Lions as an undrafted free agent. He was waived, but not before recording an important tackle in preseason. Ryan tackled a scrambling John Parker Wilson for the Atlanta Falcons to force a punt that was the start of a game winning drive for the Detroit Lions.

Kees was re-signed by the Lions on May 15, 2009, but waived on August 31, 2009.

California Redwoods
Kees was signed by the California Redwoods of the United Football League September 28, 2009, but was released on October 13.

Arizona Cardinals
Kees was signed to the practice squad of the Arizona Cardinals on January 4, 2010. He was re-signed to a future contract on January 18, 2010, but released on July 15, 2010.