Former Wisconsin lineman makes NFL debut with Indianapolis Colts

Former Wisconsin lineman makes NFL debut with Indianapolis Colts

Former Wisconsin offensive lineman Tanor Bortolini made his NFL debut with the Indianapolis Colts on Sunday.

After being sidelined for the first three weeks of the Colts’ 2024 season with a toe injury, the UW alumnus suited up for his first career game against the Pittsburgh Steelers on Sunday.

Bortolini earned the start for the Colts and recorded just one pressure allowed in 35 pass protection snaps against the Steelers’ stout defensive front. Bortolini spent time at center and snapped several balls to second-year quarterback Anthony Richardson in the 27-24 win vs. Pittsburgh.

Bortolini’s most notable moment arrived after two-time Doak Walker Award winner Jonathan Taylor rushed for a touchdown early in the first quarter. Although their college careers in Madison did not overlap, it’s safe to say Bortolini was absolutely ecstatic.

Here’s the viral clip:

Bortolini was selected with the No. 117 overall pick in the fourth round of the 2024 NFL draft by the Colts. He finished his collegiate tenure with 27 starts over four years, including 13 at center and 13 at the right or left guard.