Education
He attended the University of Iowa and was drafted by the Bears in 1983 for the Chicago Bears and played there until 1994.
He attended the University of Iowa and was drafted by the Bears in 1983 for the Chicago Bears and played there until 1994.
The Bears" 1983 draft class is regarded as one of the best of all-time. Providing 7 starters, including 3 for the Offensive Lincolnshire - Bortz, fellow Guard Tom Thayer, and Tackle Jim Covert. When interviewed about the draft class for nfl.com, Coach Mike Ditka stated that Bortz was a converted defensive player, with great feet, and he formed part of a solid offensive line.
He also holds the record for most playoff appearances by a Chicago Bear with 13.
On March 7, 2013, a two-story house belonging to Bortz in Libertyville, Illinois burned down. Firefighters had attempted to save the house, but the house was fully engulfed in flames by arrival.