Ryan Kelly has been a mainstay of the Indianapolis Colts through his entire career, and the superstar center made it clear that he wanted to end his career with the Colts. However, he became a free agent after the 2024 season, and he was known to be in serious demand. It was widely assumed that he would be selected by another team in free agency, and that is exactly what happened.
Per Ian Rapoport, Kelly is officially leaving Indianapolis.
"The #Vikings are expected to sign four-time Pro Bowl #Colts standout C Ryan Kelly, per me and [Tom Pelissero]. A key veteran addition.Ian Rapoport
He gets a 2-year, $18M deal."
Kelly, 31, was originally selected in the first round of the 2016 NFL Draft, and has had a great career in the NFL as a strong center who was selected twice to the Pro Bowl. But as he has gotten older, he has struggled more with injuries, and he spent much of 2024 on injured reserve. Rookie Tanor Bortolini replaced him, and did a good enough job as a rookie that he's already being seen as the future of the position.
Though this news was expected, it's likely to be bittersweet for all parties. In an emotional post-game interview at the end of the 2024 season, he reflected on what playing in Indianapolis has meant to him.
"Yeah, I mean, staring up and seeing my box full of people, you know... my family, my wife. Been there all the journeys of my career, ups and downs, injuries," he said, holding back obvious tears. "The fans, I mean, the amount of fans that were here, who stayed when there was no playoff chances, right? But they've been really supportive of me, our family, this team throughout the years. It's hard, man. You know, I remember the first time I ran on the field against Detroit week one my rookie year, and in the blink of a second, it's gone. So, just real emotional, but I mean, I couldn't be happier. For a big win and to play with these guys, it's been an honor."