Former Michigan lineman Ryan Hayes has found a new NFL home shortly after being released by the Miami Dolphins. The Atlanta Falcons signed Hayes to their practice squad on Thursday, a move that could give him a clearer path to a 53-man roster given Atlanta’s current injury situation on the offensive line.
Atlanta is dealing with significant depth issues up front. Starting right tackle Kaleb McGary is on season-ending injured reserve, and backup Storm Norton is expected to miss at least the first four games of the regular season. Those injuries create immediate opportunities for swing tackles and interior linemen to prove themselves, and Hayes could be in the mix as the Falcons evaluate options during camp and early in the season.
Hayes, a Traverse City native, was a two-time All-Big Ten honoree at Michigan and started 29 games over five years for the Wolverines. He made his NFL debut in Week 18 last season with the Dolphins, appearing for four special-teams plays before signing a futures contract with Miami. That contract gave him a chance to compete for a roster spot during training camp this year, and the Falcons’ need at tackle provides another avenue to earn a spot on game days.
In Miami, another former Michigan lineman remains in the organization. Guard Josh Priebe, who started all 15 games last season for Michigan as a graduate transfer from Northwestern, was signed to the Dolphins’ practice squad after being cut earlier in the week. Priebe went undrafted this year before joining Miami, continuing a trend of Michigan-alumni finding opportunities in the NFL via the Dolphins.
Outlook: Hayes joins a Falcons squad that could benefit from his versatility and his pro experience as it reshapes its line after injuries. If he adapts quickly and shows he can contribute in a reserve role or as depth at multiple spots, he could be in the mix for a deeper role as the season progresses. The Dolphins, meanwhile, keep Priebe in the fold on the practice squad, giving him another chance to develop in a pro system.