Indianapolis Colts center Ryan Kelly is listed as questionable ahead of the Week 8 game against the Detroit Lions after suffering a knee injury during Wednesday’s practice.
After failing to practice on Thursday and Friday, there is a chance the Colts will be traveling without the benefit of having their starting center. Should Kelly miss Sunday’s game, the rookie in Danny Pinter would be the one to step in even if he hasn’t played there before.
“You’re right, he had not obviously played there. We always thought that was going to be his natural position even watching his college tape, watching him move and getting to know him as a person,” said Frank Reich of Pinter. “He has the aptitude for that position. So he’s gotten a lot of good work.”
The Colts used the No. 149 pick in the 2020 NFL draft on Pinter back in April. His unique athleticism and upside make him intriguing for the future and while he hasn’t seen much work to begin his rookie season, the Colts are confident he can step in.
“From day one here, he started taking center reps and obviously had good work this week. So we have a lot of confidence in Danny (Pinter),” Reich said. “Mentally he is ready and physically he’ll be up to the task if he has to play.”
The Colts offensive line has been solid for the majority of the season and losing Kelly for a game would be a huge blow. But it seems they have plenty of confidence in the rookie if he has to step in.
