While I cannot speak for him, Mr. Ryan and I have visited on the subject a couple of times...His bloodlines are excellent and he receives excellent premiums on his animals. Beefmaster Breeders United (BBU) have a very good feedlot program going. They are getting good premiums from the buyers. BBU has a label, Nolan Ryans Tender Aged Beef and N.R.'s All Natural Beef has a niche in Texas..not sure of out of state, but they do move all they raise.
Personal opinion is that BBU seems content with their niche as well as trading bulls back and forth. I decided early that I liked the BM traits, but did not want to go the feedlot way so, I quit paying attention to BBU and have just gone with what I like. Seems to be working, I have sold all I produce...lucky to have a loyal client base.