Former Wisconsin offensive lineman Tanor Bortolini left the Indianapolis Colts preseason Week 2 game early on Saturday with a toe injury. He was held out of the fourth quarter of the team’s 21-13 exhibition win over the Arizona Cardinals.
Bortolini was given the start at center with the Colts resting their primary starters. The former Badger is projected to enter the season as the backup to veteran center Ryan Kelly.
Related: Every former Wisconsin Badger currently on an NFL roster entering 2024 training camp
The IndyStar’s Joel Erickson noted after the game that Bortolini said “he doesn’t think his toe injury will keep him out too long,” which is welcome news for the former Badger as he prepares for his rookie season.
Bortolini joined the Colts as a fourth-round pick in the 2024 NFL draft. He is set to begin his professional career after starting 27 games over four years at Wisconsin — 13 starts at center, 13 at left or right guard and one at tight end. The versatile lineman started 12 games at center for the Badgers in 2023, helping to usher in the team’s new era under offensive coordinator Phil Longo.
Tanor Bortolini says he doesn’t think his toe injury will keep him out too long
JuJu Brents had some gnarly stitches on his nose, wasn’t sure yet if it was broken or not
— Joel A. Erickson (@JoelAErickson) August 18, 2024
The Colts have one final preseason game on Aug. 22 before finalizing preparations for the upcoming season. Bortolini is a lock to make the initial 53-man roster. He’ll hope to return by Sept. 8 for the team’s Week 1 game against the Texans.
Contact/Follow @TheBadgersWire on X (formerly Twitter) and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Wisconsin Badgers news, notes and opinion.