The Indianapolis Colts got the final day of the 2024 NFL draft started by adding more depth and future value to the offensive line with the selection of Wisconsin center Tanor Bortolini.
Even though there is no starting spot immediately available for Bortolini, he can compete at the right guard spot and potentially take over for Ryan Kelly at center in 2025.
Bortolini is one of the most athletic centers to ever test at the NFL Scouting Combine, and he brings a high level of intelligence and immense versatility to work at all three interior spots.
MORE: Colts' full 2024 NFL Draft class
We gave this pick an A grade thanks to Bortolini's fit, versatility and intelligence to anchor an offensive line. Here's how the experts viewed the Colts' pick:
Colts NFL Draft grades
Here's how the experts viewed this pick for the Giants:
Chris Trapasso, CBS Sports: C+
One of the freakiest athletes at the center spot in the class. Burst, bend, speed out on screens and reach blocks. That's how he wins. Has to get drastically strong and hang onto blocks longer in the NFL. Hit or miss climbing to the second level. Arms are shorter. Upside is there but project-y. The type Indianapolis gravitates toward.
Brent Sobleski, Bleacher Report: B
Bortolini posted one of the best all-around workouts at the NFL Scouting Combine. He finished among the top two offensive linemen in the 40-yard dash (4.94 seconds), short shuttle (4.28) and three-cone drill (7.16). Oh, Bortolini definitely fits the Indianapolis Colts' athletic preferences to a tee. More importantly, he can be a long-term replacement for center Ryan Kelly, who will be a free agent after this season.
Unsurprisingly, the uber-athletic Bortolini gets swooped up by Indianapolis here. He was an outstanding tester at the combine and fits easily into zone schemes with his movement skills and balance. His short arms and smaller wingspan overall does give some pause, but he could develop into a center of the future for the Colts.
I love this pick. The Colts can’t be making a mistake by giving the injury-prone Anthony Richardson better protection. Tanor Bortolini was a possible third-round prospect who can play guard and center.
Ian Valentino, The 33rd Team: B-
A great athlete who was effective at multiple positions, Tanor Bortolini has the tools to be a standout center or decent guard.
For more Colts coverage, check out Kevin Hickey's work on Sporting News.
