While meeting with reporters Monday afternoon, head coach This center, Tanor Bortolini, had entered the concussion protocol.
Bortolini would play all 55 of the team's offensive shots on Sunday against Detroit. With Ryan Kelly still on injured reserve and Bortolini unable to play against New England this week, Steichen said Danny Pinter will be in the starting lineup.
Bortolini was selected by the Colts in the fourth round of last April's draft and appeared in six games at center this season, playing 349 snaps.
For the most part, Bortolini held his own. According to PFF metrics, he has allowed seven pressures and no sacks this season, ranking 14th in pass-blocking efficiency among all centers. According to PFF's run-blocking rating, Bortolini ranks 19th.
However, the Colts offensive line as a whole has been a major contributor to the inconsistency on the offensive side of the ball lately. Penalties were a big problem against the Lions in particular, while Anthony Richardson was often under pressure and Jonathan Taylor averaged just 3.2 yards per attempt.
As a collective unit, the play in the trenches must improve if the Colts offense is to find that elusive stability.
