Vikings Center Placed on Injured Reserve Amid Ongoing Offensive Line Issues

LONDON — The Minnesota Vikings have placed center Ryan Kelly on injured reserve, ensuring he will miss at least four games due to multiple concussions suffered in the early part of the season. This decision presents a significant challenge for the offensive line, which will now be missing three starters in their upcoming game against the Cleveland Browns.

Kelly, 32, was signed in March with a two-year, $18 million contract to help solidify the team’s offensive line. He had previously experienced at least three concussions in his NFL career. After sustaining his latest concussion in the Vikings’ second game of the season, he entered the NFL’s concussion protocol. Although he returned to play last week against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, he was once again placed into the protocol at halftime.

Vikings coach Kevin O'Connell emphasized the importance of player safety regarding Kelly’s situation. “The health of our players is always the beginning, middle and end,” O’Connell said. “We’ll totally defer to the doctors and the protocol, and we want to ensure Ryan is in a good place.”

With Kelly unavailable, the Vikings also face challenges with right tackle Brian O'Neill (MCL injury) and left guard Ezra Cleveland (wrist injury) out for the game. Kelly’s backup, Cole Banwart, is unavailable due to a hamstring injury. Offensive lineman Blake Brandel is set to start at center, despite having no prior game experience at the position.

Additionally, the Vikings have signed rookie center Chris Taggart from their practice squad to provide depth, while also activating fullback C.J. Ham from injured reserve. Fans look forward to seeing how the restructured line performs amidst the offensive challenges this Sunday.