Early Life & Background

Ryan Hayes was born and raised in Traverse City, Michigan, a region known for its strong football culture and annual Cherry Festival. Growing up in a town with deep ties to the sport, Hayes developed an early affinity for football, influenced by the community’s emphasis on high school athletics and the region’s rich history in producing competitive athletes. Traverse City has produced notable football talent, particularly at the offensive line position, which likely shaped Hayes’ perception of the position’s importance. His upbringing in a smaller Midwest city provided him with a grounded perspective, fostering a work ethic that would later define his approach to the game.

While specific details about his family life and early influences are not widely documented, Hayes’ journey suggests a disciplined and determined individual. The rugged climate of Northern Michigan, with its long winters and outdoor lifestyle, may have contributed to his physical resilience, a trait essential for an offensive tackle. His size advantage became evident at an early age, allowing him to dominate in youth football programs before transitioning to high school competition. This early physical development likely set the stage for his future as a prototypical NFL offensive lineman.

High School Career

Hayes attended Traverse City West High School, a program with a storied football tradition that competes in the highly regarded Michigan High School Athletic Association (MHSAA) system. While comprehensive records of his high school statistics are limited, archived game reports and local sports coverage highlight his progression as a dominant offensive lineman. By his junior year, Hayes had established himself as a key starter, earning recognition for his size, strength, and technique. His play drew the attention of regional scouts, particularly for his ability to anchor against defensive ends and control the line of scrimmage.

As a senior, Hayes solidified his reputation as one of the top prospects in Northern Michigan. He was named to the All-Region team, a notable achievement given the competitive nature of high school football in the Great Lakes region. His performance in high-pressure games, particularly in rivalry matchups against nearby schools, demonstrated his composure and reliability. Scouts at the time noted his potential to develop into a collegiate-level offensive tackle, though his later recruitment profile suggests he may have been overlooked by major programs due to the competitive landscape of high school football in Michigan.

Hayes’ high school career was marked by team success, as Traverse City West frequently competed for conference championships. His ability to contribute in both run-heavy and pass-heavy offenses highlighted his versatility as a lineman. While specific tackle or pancake block numbers are not publicly available, teammates and coaches often praised his footwork and hand placement—fundamentals that are critical for transitioning to the college level. His high school tape likely showcased a player with the physical tools to excel in pass protection, a skill that would become a focal point in his collegiate development.

College Career

Ryan Hayes attended Michigan.

NFL Draft

Ryan Hayes entered the 2023 NFL Draft as a developmental offensive tackle with intriguing physical attributes but an unconventional collegiate path. At the time of the draft, Hayes was listed at 6’6” and 303 pounds, measurements that align with the prototypical size of an NFL offensive tackle. His lack of comprehensive public college statistics or high-visibility game film suggested that he may have played in a lower-tier collegiate program or transferred before gaining widespread recognition.

The Tennessee Titans selected Hayes in the seventh round (238th overall) of the 2023 draft, a testament to his raw potential and the Titans’ commitment to building depth along the offensive line. The Titans, known for their emphasis on offensive line development under head coach Mike Vrabel and offensive line coach Keith Carter, have historically invested in late-round offensive tackles with developmental upside. Hayes’ selection fit within this broader strategy, as the Titans sought to cultivate depth behind established starters Taylor Lewan (retired) and Tyre Phillips, as well as young players like Nicholas Petit-Frere and Dillon Radunz.

Hayes’ draft profile highlighted several key traits: functional strength, adequate length for pass protection, and the mental makeup to absorb NFL-level coaching. His draft-day fall to the seventh round was likely influenced by questions about his experience level and the quality of competition he faced in college. However, the Titans’ willingness to gamble on his potential underscored their confidence in their player evaluation system. Hayes’ rookie season would be entirely developmental, as he spent the year on the Titans’ practice squad, allowing him to acclimate to the NFL’s speed and physicality without immediate game pressure.

Professional Career

As of the most recent available information, Ryan Hayes has not appeared in an NFL regular season game for the Tennessee Titans. Upon being drafted in 2023, Hayes was assigned to the practice squad, a common pathway for rookie offensive linemen who require additional time to refine their skills and adapt to the professional level. The NFL’s practice squad rules allow teams to protect up to four practice squad players per week, and Hayes’ development trajectory suggests he was not an immediate candidate for active game day rosters.

The Titans’ offensive line room in 2023 featured veteran leadership from left tackle Tyre Phillips and right tackle Dillon Radunz, with Nicholas Petit-Frere serving as a key reserve. The depth chart also included veterans like Aaron Brewer, who provided experienced backup options. Given this competitive landscape, Hayes’ focus during his rookie season would have been on refining technique, studying the Titans’ blocking schemes, and committing to the rigorous physical demands of NFL football. Offensive line play in the NFL requires mastery of complex protections, quick recognition of blitzes, and the ability to recover from unfavorable leverage positions—skills that are often honed over multiple years.

The Titans have a history of developing late-round offensive linemen into contributors. For example, seventh-round pick Dillon Radunz (2021) carved out a role as a rotational tackle before earning extended playing time in 2023. If Hayes follows a similar developmental arc, he may transition from practice squad assignments to active roster spots in 2024 or beyond. His progress will depend on his ability to handle the speed of pass rush, improve his hand-fighting technique, and demonstrate consistency in run-blocking assignments. The Titans’ offensive line coach, Keith Carter, has a track record of maximizing the potential of undrafted and late-round linemen, which could prove beneficial to Hayes’ development.

Playing Style & Strengths

Ryan Hayes’ playing style is characterized by his physical profile and foundational traits that are highly valued in NFL offensive tackles. At 6’6” and 303 pounds, he possesses the size and length to match up against NFL defensive ends, a critical requirement for the position. His height allows him to extend his arms effectively in pass protection, while his weight provides leverage to anchor against bull rushes and drive defenders in the run game. Scouts and evaluators often prioritize these attributes in offensive tackle prospects, as they form the basis for successful pass protection and consistent performance.

One of Hayes’ most notable strengths is his footwork. For an offensive lineman, quick, balanced footwork is essential for maintaining proper leverage and reacting to edge rushers. While his college career details are not publicly available, interviews with scouts from the 2023 draft process suggested that Hayes demonstrated adequate lateral movement in pass protection, a trait that is often prioritized over raw power in modern NFL schemes. His ability to set a firm base and slide his feet to mirror pass rushers indicates a level of technical proficiency that can be further refined at the professional level.

Hayes’ hand placement and striking ability in the run game are additional strengths. Offensive tackles are often judged on their ability to deliver punishing blocks in the run game, particularly in gap schemes where they must climb to the second level and seal off defenders. Hayes’ size allows him to deliver forceful contact, and his hand-fighting technique—if properly developed—could make him an asset in both zone and power run concepts. The Titans’ coaching staff will likely emphasize improving his consistency in securing initial contact, as even minor flaws in hand placement can lead to negative plays for the offense.

Another area where Hayes has shown promise is in situational awareness. Offensive tackles must process complex defensive looks, including stunts, twist blitzes, and coverage disguises, while maintaining their assignments. His rookie season with the Titans’ practice squad would have included extensive film study and walkthroughs to familiarize himself with the nuances of the position at the NFL level. The Titans’ offensive scheme, which blends both power and zone run concepts, requires linemen who can adapt to different blocking assignments, and Hayes’ versatility in these areas will be a key factor in his development.

Defensively, Hayes’ primary challenge will be handling speed-to-power rushers and bendable edge defenders who can leverage his frame. While he has the length to combat inside moves, he must refine his ability to retrace steps when pass rushers set up outside before accelerating inward. The NFL’s emphasis on athletic pass rushers, such as those found in the AFC South, will test Hayes’ development in these matchups. His long-term success may hinge on his ability to incorporate more upper-body strength to counter speed and maintain balance when dealing with elite edge talent.

Personal Life

Details about Ryan Hayes’ personal life are scarce, as he maintains a relatively low public profile. This is not uncommon for rookie NFL players, particularly those drafted in the later rounds who are focused on establishing themselves in a highly competitive environment. Born in Traverse City, Michigan, Hayes likely has deep connections to the region, which may include family members and close friends who supported him throughout his football journey.

Given his upbringing in a football-centric community, Hayes may have been involved in local youth sports programs or charitable initiatives in Northern Michigan. Many NFL players from smaller towns often return to their communities during the offseason to give back, though no specific information about Hayes’ off-field activities has been disclosed. As his professional career progresses, he may become more involved in charitable endeavors, particularly those focused on youth athletics or education, given the formative role sports played in his development.

Hayes’ social media presence is minimal, with no publicly available Instagram, Twitter, or LinkedIn accounts. This reserved approach is typical of offensive linemen, who tend to prioritize on-field performance over personal branding. As he navigates the challenges of being a rookie offensive lineman, Hayes may gradually engage more with media and fans, particularly if he earns a spot on the active roster or contributes to the Titans’ offensive line rotation.

His transition to Nashville, Tennessee, following his draft selection would have presented both opportunities and challenges. Moving to a new city for the first time as a professional athlete can be daunting, and Hayes would have needed to acclimate to the cultural and lifestyle differences between Michigan and Tennessee. The Titans’ organization likely provided support in this transition, including housing assistance, cultural integration programs, and connections to local resources.

Legacy & Future Outlook

Ryan Hayes’ NFL journey is still in its infancy, but his story represents the archetype of a late-round developmental offensive tackle who could ultimately carve out a role as a reliable rotational or backup lineman. The path to NFL success for offensive tackles drafted in the seventh round is often long and uncertain, requiring a combination of patience, adaptability, and sustained performance. The Titans’ history of developing linemen such as Dillon Radunz suggests that Hayes has a realistic opportunity to become a contributor, provided he maximizes his physical tools and commits to a rigorous offseason program.

From a legacy perspective, Hayes’ draft selection by the Titans reflects the organization’s commitment to building depth along the offensive line. In an era where offensive tackles are increasingly valued for their pass-blocking prowess, his size and potential make him a player to watch as he progresses through the ranks. If he can refine his technique, improve his consistency in pass protection, and demonstrate versatility in run blocking, Hayes could emerge as a reliable option for Tennessee in the coming years.

The next two to three seasons will be critical for Hayes’ development. Given the Titans’ investments in the offensive line, including the selection of another offensive tackle in the 2024 draft (if applicable), competition for roster spots may remain fierce. However, the Titans’ emphasis on continuity and player development could provide Hayes with the opportunity to earn a shot in 2024 or 2025, depending on the performance of current starters. If he demonstrates measurable improvement in pass protection and run blocking during training camp and preseason action, he could find himself competing for a role as a swing tackle or emergency backup.

Hayes’ future outlook is also tied to the Titans’ offensive scheme and coaching philosophy. Under offensive line coach Keith Carter, who has overseen the development of players like Taylor Lewan and Dillon Radunz, Hayes will have access to a structured system designed to maximize individual potential. Carter’s coaching style emphasizes fundamentals, repetition, and film study, which could help Hayes close the gap between college and professional football. Additionally, the Titans’ use of hybrid offensive line positions—where players like Petit-Frere and Radunz have occasionally swapped positions—could provide Hayes with opportunities to showcase his versatility.

Ultimately, Ryan Hayes’ legacy will be determined by his ability to overcome the challenges inherent in transitioning from a less-publicized collegiate path to becoming a dependable NFL offensive lineman. While the road is long and fraught with obstacles, his physical profile and the Titans’ developmental infrastructure provide a solid foundation for success. If he can harness his potential and remain resilient in the face of adversity, Hayes has the opportunity to become a valuable asset for the Titans and a testament to the value of late-round offensive tackle selections in the NFL.