Wisconsin Badgers' Tanor Bortolini announces he will enter the 2024 NFL draft

MADISON – Tanor Bortolini, arguably Wisconsin’s most versatile offensive lineman, has ended any speculation about his plans for 2024.

The redshirt junior from Kewaunee, who has one season of eligibility remaining, announced Wednesday night he plans to enter the 2024 NFL draft.

"As I look forward towards the next chapter of my football career," Bortolini wrote on social media, "I am forever grateful to all those who made me into the man and player that stands before you today."

According to a UW official, Bortolini has informed the team he will not play in the ReliaQuest Bowl on Jan. 1 in Tampa. Without Bortolini, reserve center Jake Renfro could make his UW debut.

Bortolini's announcement came one day after he accepted an invitation to play in the 2024 Reese’s Senior Bowl. That signaled Bortolini was ready to give the NFL a shot.

The Senior Bowl is set to be played on Feb. 3 in Mobile, Alabama. Players are evaluated by NFL officials during practices and in the game.

Bortolini has started all 12 games at center this season. He has started 28 games and played in 34 at UW. He has started at guard, center and tackle.

"It has been an honor to represent the University of Wisconsin over these last four years," he wrote. "I've loved every second and it has been an honor to take the field day in and day out with my brothers.

"I want to thank all of my teammates and coaches for everything they have done. Without them I wouldn't be the player or person I am today."

More: Wisconsin goes back to the transfer portal to land a quarterback, Miami's Tyler Van Dyke

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Wisconsin center Tanor Bortolini to enter 2024 NFL draft