Trending Now - Ryan Kelly Retires From NFL After 10 Seasons

WHO:

Ryan Kelly, NFL center

Minnesota Vikings (team)

Indianapolis Colts (team)

Emma Kelly (wife)

WHAT:

Ryan Kelly announced his retirement from the NFL on March 6, 2026.

Kelly was selected by the Colts in the first round of the 2016 NFL Draft (No. 18 overall).

He started 129 games over 10 seasons in the NFL.

Kelly earned Pro Bowl selections in 2019, 2020, 2021, and 2023.

He was named a second-team AP All-Pro in 2020.

Kelly allowed just 14 total sacks during his career with the Colts.

He had six documented concussions in his NFL career, including three in 2025.

His retirement will open $8.4 million in cap space for the Vikings.

WHERE:

Indianapolis, Indiana (Colts)

Eagan, Minnesota (Vikings)

WHEN:

Retirement announced on March 6, 2026.

Kelly played for the Colts from 2016 to 2024.

He signed with the Minnesota Vikings for the 2025 season.

His final concussion occurred in Week 16 of the 2025 season.

WHY:

Kelly's retirement follows an injury-filled season in 2025 with the Vikings.

HOW:

Kelly spent nearly two months on injured reserve due to concussions diagnosed in Weeks 2 and 4 of the 2025 season.

Upon his return in Week 12, he changed helmet models and began wearing a Guardian Cap during games.

Ryan Kelly, the NFL center who played for the Indianapolis Colts and most recently the Minnesota Vikings, announced his retirement from football on March 6, 2026, after a challenging season marked by injuries. Drafted in the first round of the 2016 NFL Draft, Kelly started 129 games over ten seasons, earning Pro Bowl selections in 2019, 2020, 2021, and 2023, while allowing just 14 total sacks throughout his career. His retirement will open up $8.4 million in cap space for the Vikings, following a season where he dealt with multiple concussions, including three in 2025.