Vikings activate C Ryan Kelly from IR after concussion recovery; OL fully intact for first time

The Minnesota Vikings have activated center Ryan Kelly from injured reserve, marking a significant step toward solidifying their offensive line for the remainder of the season.

Why it matters: Kelly's return provides the Vikings with much-needed stability along the offensive front, which has been marred by injuries this season.

• His activation means that all five members of the starting offensive line will play together for the first time this year, a crucial factor for both protection schemes and run blocking efficiency.

What's new: After nearly two months away from the field recovering from two concussions, Kelly is set to rejoin the lineup.

• He has suffered a total of five documented concussions in his NFL career, raising concerns about his long-term health but showcasing the Vikings' commitment to player safety through careful management.

By the numbers: In the 2025 season, Kelly participated in only 113 snaps before his activation.

• The Vikings diagnosed him with concussions during games in Weeks 2 and 4, prompting the decision to place him on injured reserve while he sought specialist evaluations.

Between the lines: Kelly's perspective on his time away underscores the challenges players face concerning head injuries.

• "You never want to go on IR," Kelly said. "But I think in the grand scheme of things it was the best option to give me time to see specialists and do what I needed to do."

What to watch: With Kelly back, the Vikings will need to monitor how cohesively the offensive line gels during games.

• A well-functioning offensive line is essential not just for protecting quarterback Kirk Cousins, but also for establishing the ground game in their zone-blocking schemes.

Zoom Out: The decision to waive cornerback Dwight McGlothern Jr. to make room for Kelly illustrates how teams must navigate roster management decisions amid injury concerns.

• McGlothern was later re-signed to the practice squad, highlighting the fluid nature of NFL rosters as teams adapt to changing circumstances.

The bottom line: Ryan Kelly’s return could be pivotal for the Vikings’ playoff aspirations, emphasizing the importance of health and cohesion on the offensive line as they push for postseason success.