Sean P. Ryan (born March 27, 1980) is a former American football tight end in the National Football League (NFL) for the Dallas Cowboys, New York Jets, Miami Dolphins, New Orleans Saints, San Francisco 49ers and Kansas City Chiefs.
He appeared in 11 games, with 7 starts including the Aloha Bowl at defensive end, posting 29 tackles (3 for loss) and one sack.
As a sophomore, he was converted into a tight end and became a regular starter, registering 17 receptions (fifth on the team), 223 yards and 3 touchdowns.
He finished his career with 50 games (44 starts), 75 receptions for 950 yards, 12 touchdowns (second in school history for tight ends) and 19 special teams tackles.
On November 24, with starter Dan Campbell on injured reserve, he was promoted to the active roster and appeared in 6 games as the blocking tight end.
[3] In 2006, Ryan was expected to fill the role of backup tight end for the Jets, behind Chris Baker.
On February 29, 2008, he signed a one-year contract as an unrestricted free agent with the Miami Dolphins, reuniting with former Dallas Cowboys head coach Bill Parcells.
[4] On September 24, 2008, Ryan was signed by the New Orleans Saints after starting tight end Jeremy Shockey suffered a sports hernia.
[5] He was waived prior to their next game on September 28 in order to activate fullback Olaniyi Sobomehin from the practice squad.