Packers free-agent tackle Dennis Kelly signing with Colts

After improving their offensive line depth during the 2022 NFL Draft, the Green Bay Packers have moved on from veteran tackle Dennis Kelly.

The Indianapolis Colts announced on Tuesday that they have signed Kelly.

Kelly was active for 10 games last season, making four starts. He was a backup tackle and didn’t feature often.

While Kelly could have provided some depth for the Packers this year, their offseason moves made it seem unlikely.

Green Bay drafted three offensive linemen: UCLA’s Sean Rhyan, Wake Forest’s Zach Tom, and Penn State’s Rasheed Walker. All three have experience at tackle.

Yosh Nijman should also be among the frontrunners to start at right tackle until Elgton Jenkins returns from injury.

Once Jenkins returns, the Packers will have Nijman, Rhyan, Tom, Walker, Royce Newman, and Cole Van Lanen all capable of covering at tackle if needed.

Kelly offers more experience, but the Packers have decided to get younger along the offensive line. And given how many draft picks they have invested along the line in recent years, it makes sense.

While he didn’t play too many snaps during his time in Green Bay, Kelly showed why he is good enough to start or be a backup. He is a good addition for the Colts.

The Packers’ offensive line is in a good spot. General manager Brian Gutekunst has made a point of regularly adding linemen through the draft, with an emphasis on athleticism and versatility. This gives Green Bay a lot of options and flexibility when dealing with injuries.

Kelly is a good signing for the Colts, but it’s not surprising the Packers have moved on. After drafting three offensive linemen last month, it seemed almost certain that the veteran tackle wouldn’t be back in Green Bay this season.

It’s now over to the Packers’ new additions to ensure they are ready to play when needed.