It appears that Mason McCormick won’t be the only fourth-round rookie offensive lineman making his first career start today. Four-time Pro Bowler and second-team All-Pro center for the Colts, Ryan Kelly, will miss the Week 4 contest with an apparent neck injury. Starting in his place is fourth-round rookie center Tanor Bortolini out of Wisconsin.
Kelly practiced on Wednesday but missed Thursday and Friday while nursing an apparent neck injury. The Colts’ left tackle Braden Smith was also questionable with a knee injury but is active for the Week 4 contest. The Colts have had several injuries to key players on both sides of the ball. Bortolini will have a tough task ahead of him, making his first career start against the terrifying Pittsburgh defensive front.
-Braden Smith (knee) is ACTIVE
-Tyquan Lewis (calf, wrist) is ACTIVE
-Ryan Kelly (neck) is INACTIVE
First missed start on the offensive line this year.
We looking at the first NFL action for rookie C-Tanor Bortolini?
— Kevin Bowen (@KBowen1070) September 29, 2024
Will Cam Heyward, Keeanu Benton, and Larry Ogunjobi give the rookie center a difficult day at the office? Steelers fans hope so, as Pittsburgh looks to remain undefeated against an elite, but now injured Indianapolis offensive line.