In the fourth round of the 2024 NFL Draft and pick 117th overall, the Indianapolis Colts selected Wisconsin interior offensive lineman Tanor Bortolini.
Building around quarterback Anthony Richardson does not only include putting playmakers around him but, as GM Chris Ballard mentioned recently, step one is protecting him. Bortolini will provide improved depth and competition in 2024 and has the potential to take on a larger role in 2025.
“One,” said Ballard when meeting with reporters on Friday, “when you’ve got a young quarterback, you’ve got to protect him. That’s one which I think we did a pretty good job last year, and we’ll continue to do well. Tony (Sparano Jr.) has done well with that group. We’ve got a talented group of O-linemen. You want to continue to add playmakers around him.”
With Colts rookie minicamp taking place later this week, let’s get to know Bortolini with a closer look at what he can bring to the Indianapolis offense.