Former Wisconsin Badger set to claim starting job with Indianapolis Colts
Bortolini is set for the promotion after playing a depth role as a rookie last season. He appeared in 12 total contests, starting five. He is now slotted to anchor a Colts' offensive line along with left tackle Bernhard Raimann, left guard Quenton Nelson, right guard Matt Goncalves and right tackle Braden Smith. He is set to do so after Ryan Kelly, the Colts' starting center over the last nine seasons, left for the Minnesota Vikings this offseason.
Bortolini is one of two Wisconsin products in prominent roles on the Colts' offense -- Jonathan Taylor enters 2025 as the Colts' lead running back and top offensive playmaker.
The versatile offensive lineman appeared in 35 games over four years with the Badgers from 2020-23, starting 27. Before claiming the team's full-time center role in 2023, Bortolini made starts at left guard, right guard and even tight end.
Bortolini is one of three former Wisconsin centers starting in the NFL. Joe Tippmann (2019-22) is entering year three with the New York Jets, while Tyler Biadasz (2016-19) is entering year six in the NFL and his second with the Washington Commanders.
Bortolini and the Colts begin their 2025 preseason schedule on Thursday against the Baltimore Ravens. They'll then kick off their 2025 regular season on Sept. 7 at home against the Miami Dolphins.
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