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Confidence is Low, Bust Potential High for Colts’ Offensive Line in 2025

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Blayne Gilmer | Last updated Jun 17, 2025 11:02 AM ET

In a recent piece for Bleacher Report , NFL analyst Alex Ballentine raised eyebrows among Colts fans by calling out Tanor Bortolini and Matt Goncalves as players with "bust potential" heading into their second NFL season. While Ballentine's concerns stem from the inexperience of the young linemen and the pressure they'll face replacing departed starters Ryan Kelly and Will Fries, labeling them potential busts this early feels reactionary, if not unfair.

Both Bortolini and Goncalves were mid-round picks in the 2024 NFL Draft, and rather than riding the bench as developmental projects, each saw meaningful playing time in their first year. Bortolini, a fourth-round selection, logged 351 snaps at center and did not surrender a sack in 211 pass-blocking reps, per Pro Football Focus. For a rookie thrust into the heart of the offensive line, that's not just promising—it's impressive.

For the first time in the Chris Ballard era, the Colts have a new starting center.

Tanor Bortolini, your time is now. pic.twitter.com/tHSv8y2lXZ
— Noah Compton (@nerlens_) March 10, 2025

Goncalves, a third-rounder out of Pitt, played 566 snaps at both left and right tackle in 2024. Now moving to guard, the Colts drafted him with versatility in mind, and his rookie-season reps provide a foundation for his transition inside.

Yes, there will be pressure on the duo in 2025. The Colts expect them to hold down starting roles. With Quenton Nelson and Bernhard Raimann on the other side, Bortolini and Goncalves help form the nucleus of an offensive line that protects likely quarterback Daniel Jones and anchors the run game for Jonathan Taylor. But pressure isn't the same as failure.

The leap from year one to year two is critical, and both linemen now have valuable NFL game tape to build on. Ballentine's critique might have merit down the line if regression sets in, but calling out "bust potential" after a season of encouraging flashes feels premature.

For now, Colts fans should feel optimistic. Indianapolis didn't draft projects; they drafted contributors. Now, they need time to grow.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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