The Indianapolis Colts have ruled out rookie center Tanor Bortolini for the team’s Week 13 matchup with New England, which means Danny Pinter is in the line for the start.
In addition to not having Bortolini, Ryan Kelly also remains on injured reserve, which is why the team will likely turn to Pinter.
Bortolini experienced concussion symptoms following Sunday’s game against the Lions and entered protocol on Monday. He did not practice at all during the week and has not yet been cleared to return.
For the most part, Bortolini, a fourth-round pick this past April by Indianapolis, has held his own as a starter. According to PFF’s metrics, he’s allowed seven pressures and no sacks this season, ranking 14th in pass-blocking efficiency among all centers. By PFF’s run-blocking grade, Bortolini ranks 19th.
Pinter would miss the 2023 season due to injury, so his last regular season snaps came in 2022. That year, Pinter played 292 snaps, most of which came at right guard, and included four starts,
Awaiting the Colts this week is a New England front that ranks 12th in yards per rush allowed and 28th in pressure rate, according to Pro Football Reference.
However, for Indianapolis, regardless of who is out there, they need better play from their offensive line. The run game has struggled to get going over the last month, while this past Sunday, penalties and regular pressure on Anthony Richardson was a major issue.