Indianapolis Colts offensive lineman Blake Freeland sustained a fractured right leg during a preseason game against the Green Bay Packers on August 26, 2024. The injury occurred in the first half, forcing Freeland to be carted off the field, as confirmed by head coach Shane Steichen following the Colts’ 23-19 loss.
The incident took place early in the second quarter during a running play on third-and-1. As the play concluded, Freeland’s right leg became pinned beneath other players, leading to his fall. Medical staff attended to him for several minutes before placing his leg in a boot. His teammates gathered to support him as he was lifted onto a golf cart.
“Injuries, we all know it’s part of the game and part of the journey,” Steichen said. “Everyone, at some point, if they play enough in this league, is going to have an injury. It’s the way you attack your rehab and go through it and know there’s a plan for your life in this game.”
Freeland’s injury compounds existing challenges for the Colts’ offensive line, which has faced difficulties against pass rushers, particularly during joint practice sessions with the Packers earlier in the week. The three-year veteran from Brigham Young University was anticipated to back up Braden Smith and possibly act as a swing tackle this season.
During a game where Steichen aimed to give his starters ample playing time, both Freeland and Smith exited early due to injuries. Smith was ruled out in the second quarter with a groin injury. Consequently, rookie Jalen Travis is expected to take a prominent role in next Saturday’s preseason finale against the Cincinnati Bengals.
“He got quite a bit of time out there today and I’m really pleased with him,” Steichen commented on Travis. “He’s a big body tackle, a smart football player. He’s got great power, great hands at the line of scrimmage, so I’m really pleased with his progression and where he’s at.”
As the Colts prepare for their season opener against the Miami Dolphins on September 7, 2024, the team faces critical decisions regarding their offensive line depth and overall strategy in light of these injuries. The impact of Freeland’s absence will be felt as the Colts continue to refine their lineup and approach heading into the regular season.
