The 49ers this morning announced the signing of tight end Sean Ryan. To make room on the 53-man roster for Ryan the 49ers waived fullback David Kirtman.
Ryan (6-5, 260) was originally a fifth-round draft pick by the Cowboys in 2004. He spent his first two NFL season in 2004 and 2005 alternating between the Cowboys practice squad and 53-man roster and then was traded by
After two seasons with the Jets, Ryan signed with Dolphins in the 2008 offseason. He made the Dolphins 53-man roster after training camp and saw action in the season-opener before being cut. He signed with Saints for one game later in September before being waived. He has played in 37 career games with six starts and has caught 11 passes for 97 yards.
Ryan gives the 49ers four tight ends on their roster. He would likely be used on special teams and as an H-back or blocking back with fullback Zak Keasey out for the season. Also, the status of backup tight end Delanie Walker is in question for the coming game due to an elbow sprain.
