Former Badger Tanor Bortolini Makes First Career NFL Start
Former Badger offensive lineman Tanor Bortolini made his first career NFL start on Sunday for the Indianapolis Colts against the Pittsburgh Steelers. Usual starter Ryan Kelly couldn't go due to injury, so the Wisconsin rookie was called into action.
He got off to a hot start, leading the way for Badger legend Jonathan Taylor for a first quarter touchdown. After the play, the big man couldn't contain his excitement.
when you help lead block for a TD in your first career start 🔥 @TanorBortolini pic.twitter.com/GkOZ0dzanh
— NFL (@NFL) September 29, 2024
The Colts would go on to win 27-24, capping off a dream day for Bortolini. He was selected in the fourth round of the 2024 NFL Draft after several successful years at Wisconsin. He was drafted as the heir apparent to Kelly, but may end up playing earlier than expected depending on the severity of Kelly's injury.
Both Braelon Allen of the New York Jets and Maema Njonmeta of the Cincinnati Bengals have played as Badger rookies and now Bortolini has thrown his hat into the ring.
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