Ed “Rocky” Ryan was a legendary running back at Leo High School, where he was recognized as the Outstanding High School Back in Illinois. A member of the All-City, All-State, and High School All-American teams, Ryan was a leading scorer and ground gainer in the Chicago Catholic League, captaining his team and earning Most Valuable Player honors in the 1956 Prep Bowl.

Ryan continued his football career at Michigan State University, where he captained the Spartans and was named an Academic All-American. Known for his electrifying play, he was voted the Most Exciting Athlete for all sports at MSU and earned Big Ten Player of the Week honors on several occasions. In 1962, he received the Michigan State Biggie-Munn Great Spartan Most Valuable Player Award.

Following college, Ryan played professionally in the Canadian Football League (CFL) with the Toronto and Ottawa teams. He was inducted into the Catholic League Hall of Fame in 1998 and is also a member of the Leo High School Hall of Fame, cementing his legacy as a standout athlete and leader both on and off the field.