5 New Indianapolis Colts Who Will Have Huge Impact in 2016
By Kyle Nishida
Center Ryan Kelly
Since Andrew Luck joined the Indianapolis Colts in 2012, the starting center role has been a revolving door. As a result, Ryan Kelly is an obvious candidate to be their best acquisition in 2016.
After selecting Kelly 18th overall in the 2016 NFL Draft, the Colts released starting center Khaled Holmes. They also decided to move Jonotthan Harrison to offensive guard. Both of these moves signal that the franchise is all-in on Kelly assuming the starting center spot.
The Colts are putting a lot of trust in him, and there is a strong likelihood they will be reward for it. All reports are suggesting Kelly is working hard and learning the playbook quickly. Also, he is doing his best to develop a strong relationship with Luck.
If Kelly continues to progress well in training camp, he will be ready to take command of the Colts’ offensive line by Week 1. Plus, he has the talent and durability to be an every-down player for them.
At the University of Alabama, Kelly started 35 games and won the Rimington Trophy, which is awarded to the top center in college football, in 2015. For three seasons, he was the leader of a very stable and effective offensive line.
It will be hard to judge Kelly’s impact statistically. However, if the Andrew Luck is hit less often than last season in 2016, then it is probably safe to say Kelly is doing the right things as the starting center.
The Indianapolis Colts are giving a huge opportunity to a talented individual in Kelly. As a result, Kelly should be one of their big impact players in 2016.
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