Former Colts Center Ryan Kelly Announces NFL Retirement

Kelly played for the Colts from 2016 to 2024 and was a four-time Pro Bowler.

Published on Mar. 7, 2026

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Ryan Kelly, a former first-round draft pick of the Indianapolis Colts, has announced his retirement from the NFL after nine seasons. Kelly spent his entire career with the Colts, starting 121 games and earning four Pro Bowl selections between 2019 and 2023. He was also named a second-team AP All-Pro in 2020.

Why it matters

Kelly was a stalwart on the Colts' offensive line, serving as a consistent leader and anchor who helped set the tone for the team's success during his tenure. His retirement marks the end of an era for the Colts and leaves a significant hole to fill on their offensive line.

The details

Kelly was selected by the Colts in the first round of the 2016 NFL Draft (No. 18 overall) and remained in Indianapolis through the 2024 season. During his time with the Colts, he allowed just 14 total sacks. Kelly and his wife, Emma, were also active participants in the local community, hosting baby showers for expecting mothers and staying involved with various organizations and foundations.

  • Kelly was drafted by the Colts in 2016.
  • He played for the Colts from 2016 to 2024.
  • Kelly was named to the Pro Bowl in 2019, 2020, 2021, and 2023.
  • He was named a second-team AP All-Pro in 2020.
  • Kelly signed with the Minnesota Vikings as a free agent for the 2025 season.

The players

Ryan Kelly

A former first-round draft pick of the Indianapolis Colts, Kelly played center for the team from 2016 to 2024, earning four Pro Bowl selections and a second-team AP All-Pro nod in 2020.

Emma Kelly

Ryan Kelly's wife, who was also active in the local community, hosting baby showers for expecting mothers and staying involved with various organizations and foundations.

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What they’re saying

“For nine years, Kelly was a staple and an anchor on the Colts offensive line, and served as a consistent leader and captain who helped set the tone for the team's success.”

— Amanda Foster (statenews.net)

What’s next

Kelly signed with the Minnesota Vikings as a free agent for the 2025 season, so his future playing career will be with the Vikings.

The takeaway

Ryan Kelly's retirement from the NFL after a successful nine-year career with the Indianapolis Colts marks the end of an era for the team's offensive line. His consistent play and leadership will be missed, and the Colts will need to find a way to replace his production and presence on the field.