Colts' Pro Bowl Center Leaves TNF With Hip Injury

The Indianapolis Colts entered their Thursday Night Football matchup with the Denver Broncos with a myriad of injuries, and things have only gotten worse in the first half. After starting running back Nyheim Hines exited in the first quarter with a concussion, three-time Pro Bowl center Ryan Kelly left in the second with a hip injury.

#colts center Ryan Kelly is in the locker room with a hip injury. he is questionable to return.

— James Palmer (@JamesPalmerTV) October 7, 2022

Kelly collided awkwardly with Broncos defensive tackle Mike Purcell while blocking downfield. The Colts offensive line had struggled through four weeks, averaging 3.5 yards per rush and allowing 15 sacks. Things have been even worse in the first half against the Broncos: quarterback Matt Ryan has been sacked four times and the Colts have scored three points.

At the half: pic.twitter.com/6jHYmrVuzZ

— Indianapolis Colts (@Colts) October 7, 2022

The Colts' 18th overall pick in the 2016 NFL Draft, Kelly has started 85 games for the Colts in his seven seasons. He made the first of three consecutive Pro Bowls in 2019, but he's been more name than game of late. Pro Football Focus gave him an ugly 56.9 overall grade in 2021, and he was off to a 62.2 start before tonight's contest.

Kelly was replaced in the lineup by Danny Pinter. The third-year player has appeared in 34 games for the Colts since being drafted 149th overall in 2020.
Photo Credit:© Robert Scheer/IndyStar / USA TODAY NETWORK