On May 2 the Cincinnati Bengals announced their undrafted free agent signings, which included University of Connecticut offensive lineman Mike Ryan. Over a week later just before Cincinnati's rookie minicamp on May 11, the Bengals released Ryan and three others after reportedly failing their physicals. According to Ryan, he had suffered a "slight knee injury" during his March Pro Day.

For the time being Ryan is heading back to class to earn his degree and rehabilitate for an invite with another team.

"It's unfortunate but this summer I'm going to try and graduate [with a degree in English]," Ryan said. "I've got four more classes I need to get that done and then be ready if I get a call or an invite to fall camp."

There have been five players released by the team due to a failure with their respective physicals, including Ryan, defensive end Julian Miller, cornerback Derrius Brooks, offensive tackle Landon Walker and offensive lineman Chris Riley.