The Minnesota Vikings made notable moves in free agency, strengthening both their offensive and defensive lines. With a new quarterback set to lead the team in 2025, their signings of offensive linemen Ryan Kelly and Will Fries appear to be strategic decisions. The pair, who were teammates on the Indianapolis Colts since 2021, have reunited in Minnesota, where they will be tasked with improving a struggling unit.
ESPN’s Benjamin Solak expressed particular praise for the acquisition of Fries, calling him one of his “top free agent gems.” Solak believes Fries, who was previously one of the most underrated players in the league, could make a strong push for a Pro Bowl spot if he fully recovers from a tibia injury.
In a March 26 article, Solak said, “I loved the investment in the offensive line.” The Athletic’s David DeChant, Jourdan Rodrigue, and Vic Tafur ranked Fries as the 18th overall free agent and the second-best guard entering the free agent cycle.
Fries, a former seventh-round pick, had a rough start in 2022 but emerged as one of the league’s most improved players in 2023. He continued his growth in 2024 until a tibia injury in October cut his season short.
Will Fries
The Athletic staff noted that his recovery will be crucial in determining his market, but if healthy, Fries is considered one of the top 10 right guards in the NFL, praised for his run-blocking ability, pass protection, and aggressive play style. Pro Football Focus ranked the Vikings 16th in run blocking and 18th in pass protection for 2024.
Fries is expected to replace Ed Ingram, who was traded to the Houston Texans, at right guard for the 2025 season. Fries signed a five-year, $87.7 million deal to join the Vikings.
As for Kelly, he will take over for Garrett Bradbury at center. While Solak noted that Bradbury was a serviceable player, he wasn’t irreplaceable. Solak wrote, “The Vikings did what true contenders do and tried to upgrade not just at the needy positions, but also the average ones.
” While Kelly is 31 years old, older than Bradbury, the move is seen as a reasonable risk. Kelly, who struggled with injuries in 2024, appearing in only 10 games, was still solid when on the field, allowing just one sack and 11 pressures.
Though no longer at Pro Bowl level, Kelly is a seasoned leader and a capable starter. He signed a two-year, $18 million contract, with no guaranteed money in 2026, allowing the Vikings to cut him and save $12.1 million without incurring dead money.
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