The long wait for Minnesota Vikings fans is finally coming to an end. After more than two months sidelined by a concussion—his sixth documented in a 10-season career—four-time Pro Bowl center Ryan Kelly is set to make his triumphant return in Week 12 against the Green Bay Packers. The Vikings could be tantalizingly close to full strength for this crucial NFC North showdown in Wisconsin, as Kelly returned to full practice in Eagan this Wednesday, signaling a major boost to the offensive line.
Kelly, who hasn’t seen game action since the Vikings’ overseas trips to Dublin and London earlier in the season, logged a full practice for the first time in what feels like eons. Head coach Kevin O’Connell kept it straightforward when addressing reporters: “Ryan Kelly should be a full participant.” This announcement is a clear indicator that the starting center is on track to suit up on Sunday. Fans haven’t laid eyes on Kelly in over 60 days, and his absence has forced the team to rely on backups like Blake Brandel and Michael Jurgens at the center position, with Brandel handling the bulk of the snaps.
This development is a strong sign for Week 12. It would be unusual for Kelly to practice fully midweek and then sit out the game, especially after the Vikings likely held him back from last weekend’s matchup against the Bears purely as a precaution. Barring any setbacks on Thursday or Friday, Kelly’s return seems all but guaranteed. It’s the smoking gun Vikings supporters have been hoping for, providing much-needed stability to an offensive line that’s been plagued by injuries all season.
In an ironic twist, Kelly’s comeback coincides with his replacement, Blake Brandel, finally finding his rhythm at center. Brandel’s Pro Football Focus grade has climbed to 60.0, a notable improvement from the low 50s in recent weeks. Just as Brandel has adapted and excelled in the role, he’ll likely head back to the bench. That’s the nature of the NFL—depth is crucial, and Brandel’s versatility could still come into play elsewhere. For instance, right guard Will Fries appeared on the injury report with a knee issue and didn’t practice Wednesday. If Fries can’t go, Brandel, who can line up at any spot on the offensive line, would be the logical next man up.
The Vikings will likely be without one starter, as edge rusher Jonathan Greenard is dealing with a shoulder injury and didn’t practice. But Kelly’s return could offset that, bringing the team closer to having their intended starting five on the offensive line together for the first time this season. Standout left tackle Christian Darrisaw missed the opening games recovering from a knee injury, while rookie left guard Donovan Jackson (hand) and right tackle Brian O’Neill (knee) have also been sidelined at points. Fries has been the only lineman to start every game so far.
Beyond the on-field impact, Kelly’s health remains the top priority. He’ll reportedly don a giant Guardian helmet to protect against further concussions—a wise choice that could extend his career. O’Connell emphasized that the team deferred to medical professionals both inside and outside the organization for clearance. KARE11’s David Griswold reported: “O’Connell said they’ve deferred to medical professionals both inside and outside of the organization to determine when Kelly would be cleared to return to the field. He added that Kelly will likely wear a guardian cap, as well as a new helmet, to help reduce the risk of another concussion.”
Kelly must avoid another brain injury at all costs. Sources indicated he considered retiring this year to prioritize his health, but the warrior in him couldn’t stay away. Channeling the spirit of Wu-Tang Clan, he needs to “protect ya neck” moving forward. When healthy, Kelly performs at a Top 10 level among centers, making his activation a weapon the Packers—and the rest of the league—will fear.
Even with this positive news, the Vikings enter as a touchdown underdog in Green Bay. But Kelly’s return injects optimism and could be the spark needed to stabilize the lineup down the stretch. The wait is over; the Pro Bowler is back, and Week 12 just got a whole lot more intriguing.