Blake Cashman left the opener with a hamstring injury, testing Minnesota’s linebacking depth as J.J. McCarthy’s first NFL start stalled the offense. Caleb Williams’ scrambling repeatedly extended plays, keeping the Vikings reactive and short-handed at LB. With Cashman’s status uncertain, Week 2 vs Atlanta looms as a proving ground for the depth chart and fantasy managers watching idp upside.

Ryan Kelly’s tent delay offered a minor subplot, but the bigger storyline is the linebacking corps and how the Vikings adapt on the fly. Fantasy leagues will hinge on who steps into bigger snaps if Cashman sits and how Minnesota balances containment of Williams with run defense in a pivotal early-season test.

Daniel Jones named starter for the Colts, bringing steadier ball security and playoff experience, signaling a safer floor for Indianapolis but a potentially slower, less explosive offense. Alec Pierce may see fewer deep shots, while Josh Downs could become a go-to conduit on quick throws. Jonathan Taylor remains the centerpiece, with Taylor’s rushing work likely to help set up the short-to-intermediate passing game, aided by Nelson and a retooled interior line.

Jones’ second chance with the Colts hinges on managing the through-world of field position and run-first balance. The departure of Ryan Kelly and Will Fries to Minnesota adds interior questions, but Quenton Nelson anchors the line. The duo’s chemistry with Richardson’s developmental path frames a high-floor, moderate-ceiling fantasy landscape in 2025.

Ryan Kelly has quickly established himself as a key figure on the Minnesota Vikings this season, showcasing his leadership qualities and insight on his fellow players. In a recent discussion, he highlighted the impact of rookie guard Donovan Jackson, humorously noting that Jackson "refills the snacks". This statement underscores Jackson's role not just on the field but also in fostering team spirit off it. Kelly's early impressions of Jackson reveal a strong work ethic and a commitment to his development, emphasizing how rookies can contribute to team morale.

Ryan Kelly's recent signing with the Minnesota Vikings has generated excitement among fans and analysts alike. Known for his exceptional interior pass protection skills, Kelly aims to bolster the Vikings' offensive line. His experience as a former Alabama standout not only brings talent but also valuable leadership qualities, enhancing the dynamics of the Vikings' locker room. His endorsement of quarterback J.J. McCarthy as 'our guy' further illustrates his commitment to the team's future.

With Kelly anchoring the line, he can provide the necessary support for the team's offense, particularly in protecting the quarterback during crucial moments. His prior success at Alabama, where he contributed to a highly efficient offense, indicates potential improvements for the Vikings as they aim to revitalize their attack. Expect Kelly's presence to impact both the run game and pass protection significantly.

In the latest NFL poll by ESPN, Minnesota Vikings' Ryan Kelly received an honorable mention for his performance on the interior offensive line, demonstrating his value but failing to break into the top ten rankings. The poll reflects insights from coaches, scouts, and executives across the league, showcasing a disparity between the subjective opinions of fans and the league’s professional evaluators.

The Vikings' offensive line has been a focal point for improvement, especially in protecting quarterback Kirk Cousins and facilitating the run game. Kelly's recognition indicates his solid play, though the lack of a higher ranking suggests competition in the league's interior line category remains fierce.