The Indianapolis Colts rookie class from the 2023 season had plenty of ups and downs throughout what was an encouraging campaign from the organization as a whole.
With their first season now behind them, it’s time to take a quick look back at how they performed and where they may be headed in the future. In our rookie review series, we’ll be taking a look at each 2023 draft pick currently still with the team.
Here are the rookie seasons we’ve reviewed thus far:
Now, it’s time to review the rookie season for offensive tackle Blake Freeland, who was selected with the No. 106 overall pick in the 2023 NFL draft.
2023 stats
| Games (Starts) | 16 (9) |
| Snaps | 702 |
| Pressures Allowed (PFF) | 45 |
| Sacks Allowed (PFF) | 4 |
| Pass Block Grade (PFF) | 42.6 |
| Run Block Grade (PFF) | 47.6 |
What went right
Freeland was thrown into the fire as the swing tackle during his rookie season. The Colts may not have planned for the fourth-round pick to play so many snaps, but they had little choice considering the constant carousel of injuries hitting the offensive line. Experience is likely the best takeaway from Freeland’s rookie season. He matched up against some elite competition. How he fared is another story, but getting that experience gave him the opportunity to learn.
What went wrong
A lot went wrong for Freeland. His rookie season didn’t get off to a strong start. He allowed 45 total pressures and four sacks, according to Pro Football Focus, despite not being a full-time starter. In the 10 games in which he played at least 95% of the offensive snaps, only twice did he allow fewer than three pressures in the game. Freeland must work on being more consistent with his anchor and hand placement entering his second season. The athleticism is there, but improving those two aspects of his game would help incredibly.
Best game
There weren’t a whole lot of games to choose from, but his outing against the Cincinnati Bengals in Week 14 may have been his best. According to Pro Football Focus, he allowed just one total pressure while getting the start at right tackle. That means he held his own against the likes of Trey Hendrickson on the edge, which is impressive for any rookie.
Overall review
We shouldn’t give up on Freeland just yet. The Colts saw a prospect that has upside when they drafted him in the fourth round. Though his rookie season didn’t get started in a positive manner, he still gained some valuable experience at both right and left tackle. There is still optimism he can grow into a viable swing tackle, but the Colts should be sure to add some competition during the 2024 offseason.
