EAGAN, Minn. — The Vikings on Wednesday placed veteran center Ryan Kelly on Injured Reserve for the second time in 2025, one day ahead of hosting the Lions in Week 17.

Kelly left Sunday's game in concussion protocol, despite wearing a Guardian Cap as an external layer on his helmet. It was his third time to enter concussion protocol this season.

He first dealt with the issue this season in Minnesota's Week 2 home opener against the Falcons. Kelly left that game after 23 snaps and returned to action in Week 4 against Pittsburgh in Dublin.

Kelly suffered a concussion in that game, as well, leaving after 34 snaps. He was placed on Injured Reserve and returned to action in Week 12 at Green Bay.

The four-time Pro Bowler and 2016 first-round pick of the Colts had been playing well during Minnesota's December games, helping the team go 3-0 so far this month. He left Sunday's contest after 21 snaps.

The placement on IR means Kelly's 10^th pro season and first in Minnesota was limited to eight games.

Michael Jurgens is expected to start in Kelly's place against the Lions. Jurgens, a 2024 seventh-round selection, has appeared in 16 games through his first two seasons and last started in Week 3.

Minnesota also announced the signing of interior offensive lineman Henry Byrd from its practice squad to the 53-man roster. Byrd has appeared in two games but only on special teams this season.

The Vikings used a standard elevation from the practice squad for linebacker Sione Takitaki, who made his Minnesota debut on special teams last week at the New York Giants.

Minnesota additionally downgraded rookie tight end Gavin Bartholomew from questionable to out. Bartholomew has been dealing with a back injury all season and is in his 21-day evaluation window.

View the 2025 Vikings Schedule.

See the Vikings 2026 Opponents.

Check out the Vikings 2026 Draft Picks.

View future opponents for the Vikings.

Buy single game tickets.

Download the official Vikings App.