For much of the 2025 campaign, the main topic of conversation surrounding the Minnesota Vikings has involved their quarterback situation, where J.J. McCarthy has struggled to assert himself as the team’s long-term starter. While injuries haven’t helped McCarthy personally, they have also had an impact on who is on the field alongside him for much of the year.
Case in point, one of the most important pieces of the team’s offensive line, center Ryan Kelly, has only suited up for three games due to a pair of concussions. While Kelly appears to be closing in on a return to the field, the former Pro Bowl lineman recently revealed that he considered retiring after his most recent concussion, which has caused him to miss almost two months of action.
Ryan Kelly Nearly Retired After Most Recent Concussion
Kelly broke into the league as the No. 18 overall pick in the 2016 NFL Draft, and he quickly turned himself into one of the best centers in the league with the Indianapolis Colts. In nine seasons with the team, Kelly earned four Pro Bowl selections and a Second Team All-Pro selection in 2020, which is widely believed to be the best season of his career.
Over the offseason, Kelly signed a two-year, $18 million contract with the Vikings, with the hope being that he could help fortify their offensive line in front of McCarthy. Instead, a pair of concussions has limited him to just three games, and after the most recent one, retirement quickly became an option for Kelly.
With at least five documented concussions to his name now, Kelly revealed that he began taking his health and his future into account after his latest injury. And while he briefly considered retiring, he quickly pushed that to the side, thanks in large part to his love for the game of football and his desire to get back out on the field with his teammates.
“A lot of soul searching, getting as many answers as I could. And then I realized I’m not done. I still love this game,” Kelly said when discussing his recent retirement decision, per Andrew Krammer of The Minnesota Star Tribune.
Ryan Kelly Aiming to Return to Action in Week 12
GettyMinnesota Vikings center, Ryan Kelly, getting ready to snap the ball in the first quarter against the Atlanta Falcons at U.S. Bank Stadium on September 14, 2025.
Kelly logged three full practices this week, seemingly paving the way for him to get back on the field for Minnesota in Week 12. When he does get back on the field, Kelly will be sporting a higher-rated helmet and a Guardian Cap in an effort to better protect himself from potential head injuries. While he’s still playing, safety is being prioritized for him moving forward.
Considering how the Vikings have a tough matchup against the Green Bay Packers on their hands, it’s safe to say that the team could use Kelly on the field for this contest. With Minnesota looking to keep its playoff hopes alive, a win is almost a necessity for the team this weekend. Kickoff for this very important divisional clash is scheduled for 1 p.m. ET on Sunday afternoon.
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