[1][2] Ryan returned to football while in Toowoomba and became an impressive prospect, joining the Brisbane Lions Academy program and later representing Queensland at the Under 17 National Championships in 2018.

[5] In the later part of the season, Ryan played QAFL football with Sherwood Districts and later made his NEAFL debut with Redland.

[15][16] After a four-goal performance in late-May and following an injury to lead AFL ruck Toby Nankervis, Ryan was considered for senior selection but eventually passed over for the club's round 12 match against Essendon.

[17][18][19] Instead he was given the role as lead ruck at reserves level and after a COVID-19 outbreak induced three-week bye, impressing in the club's next match with 30 hit outs and one goal against Williamstown.

[21][22] After a poor performance that including just one hitout and no disposals, Ryan was immediately dropped back to reserves level the following week.