Vikings Sign Veteran Center Ryan Kelly to Two-Year Deal

The longest tenured Colt is no longer a Colt. Veteran center and captain Ryan Kelly has agreed to a two-year deal with the Minnesota Vikings worth $18 million, marking the end of his nine-season tenure in Indianapolis.

Kelly was drafted by the Colts in the first round of the 2016 NFL Draft and went on to have a successful career with the team. He was named to the Pro Bowl four times, including most recently in 2023, and earned second-team All-Pro honors in 2020.

However, Kelly's final season with the Colts was marked by injuries, including neck, calf, and knee problems that limited him to just 10 games. His right knee injury forced him to the injured reserve list in November, but he underwent surgery and returned to the field in December.

In January, Kelly reflected on his time in Indianapolis, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to spend most of his career with one team.

“I don’t downplay how special that is to be at one place for nine years,” Kelly said.

Kelly also praised Colts owner Jim Irsay and his family for their support throughout his career, saying: “I can’t thank enough, Jim Irsay and his family... I truly believe that there’s no ownership that cares more about their players than he does.”