The Minnesota Vikings have a big week of free agency coming up.
Per multiple reports, the Vikings want to bring in a veteran to compete with third-year quarterback J.J. McCarthy.
Former Arizona Cardinals quarterback Kyler Murray has been heavily linked to Minnesota, though the 2019 No. 1 pick has other potential suitors like the Indianapolis Colts and New York Jets.
Veteran quarterbacks could decide to sign for a team that gives them the best chance of winning. On Friday, the Vikings received news that could affect how quarterbacks perceive the offense.
On his X account, center Ryan Kelly announced his retirement from the league.
“10 seasons. What an incredible ride it was,” Kelly posted. “I was blessed to be around some of the greatest people this sport has to offer. I always wanted to leave each place better than how I found it and with that I can hang my hat. Forever grateful for my family and brothers! Cheers.”
The Indianapolis Colts selected Kelly with the No. 18 pick in the 2016 NFL Draft. The former Alabama standout earned second-team All-Pro honors and made four Pro Bowl appearances.
He joined the Vikings in 2025, appearing and starting in eight games.
Kelly suffered three concussions during the regular season. On Dec. 24, the Vikings placed Kelly on season-ending injured reserve for the third concussion.
Per the Colts, Kelly started 121 games for Indianapolis. During his nine years wit the Colts, he allowed only 14 sacks.
Per Pro Football Focus, Kelly earned a 82.2 grade for the 2025 season, ranked No. 4 out of 40 centers.
Kelly, 32, will be a big miss for Minnesota in the upcoming season. It’ll be interesting to see if the retirement makes veteran quarterbacks like Murray or Kirk Cousins pause before free agency next week.
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