Ryan Kelly’s Concussion Concerns Amplify Vikings’ Offensive Line Struggles
Ryan Kelly’s ongoing concussion issues are raising significant concerns for the Minnesota Vikings as they grapple with a shaky offensive line. The veteran center was ruled out for the second time in three weeks due to a concussion, a situation that leaves the team scrambling for solutions.
Recent Developments in Kelly’s Health
Kelly exited the game against the Steelers in Ireland on Sunday after entering the concussion protocol, quickly leading to his removal from the contest. This marks the second instance in just three games that he has been sidelined by a concussion. He previously suffered a similar fate in the Week 2 matchup against the Falcons, which forced him to miss the Week 3 victory over the Bengals while still under protocol.
Although Kelly returned to practice this week, the recurrence of concussions in such a short span casts doubt on his availability for the upcoming game against the Browns in London. Even if he manages to return post bye week, his history of head injuries raises red flags about his long-term durability.
Kelly’s Track Record and Contract with the Vikings
The 29-year-old center has dealt with concussions throughout his career, having recorded three documented instances during his time with the Indianapolis Colts, including two this season alone. After spending nine seasons in Indianapolis, Kelly signed a two-year, $18 million deal with the Vikings this spring, which included $9.25 million guaranteed. This investment highlights the team’s reliance on his presence in the lineup.
A Fragile Offensive Line
Adding to the Vikings’ woes, the offensive line has struggled to maintain stability, with four of the five starters missing time this season. The current injury report reads:
LT Christian Darrisaw: Missed Weeks 1 and 2 due to a knee issue.
LG Donovan Jackson: Out for Week 4 and likely Week 5 with a wrist injury.
C Ryan Kelly: Has been absent for parts of three games due to two concussions.
RG Will Fries: No reported injuries.
RT Brian O’Neill: Left the Week 4 game with a knee injury.
This fragile unit, which the Vikings heavily invested in during the offseason, has yet to take the field together for a single snap. The earliest they might reunite could be in Week 7 against the Eagles, contingent upon the recovery of Jackson, Kelly, and O’Neill.
Impact on Current Gameplay
As the Vikings finish their game against the Steelers without three starting linemen, they have been forced to rely on backups, with Blake Brandel stepping in at left guard, Michael Jurgens at center, and Justin Skule at right tackle. This shift in personnel has posed challenges, as evidenced by Carson Wentz being sacked six times in just three quarters of play. At the time of this writing, the Vikings found themselves trailing 21-6 against the Steelers.
With 60% of their offensive line battling injuries, the Vikings may face an uphill battle against the Browns next week in London. The ongoing health concerns surrounding Ryan Kelly only add to the urgency for the team to find a cohesive solution as they navigate this critical stretch of the season.
