Former NFL player for the Minnesota Vikings has just received an opportunity to make it big in the world of music. Blake Proehl, a wide receiver from East Carolina University, signed with the Vikings as an un-drafted free agent in the 2021 NFL draft.
In an unfortunate change in events, Proehl would suffer a season ending injury right before he would set out to begin his NFL career. Proehl blew out his knee in a pre-season practice with Denver and would undergo surgery to jeopardize his season.
Proehl explained, “I went through a really tough surgery… I tore a bunch of stuff, they said hey it’ll be a success story if you are able to run again in general.”
Proehl turned to music during his rehab from his injury, and that his grandma was the one who encouraged him.
“My grandma is the reason why I’m here,” he said. “She’s the reason why I have any confidence at all to be in this room.”
Proehl’s musical talents were first seen on tik tok as he began to post covers as well as original songs. His social media posts began to catch fire getting millions of views, he knew that he had a special talent.
I wasn’t able to walk for so long, that’s where music came in and saved me.” — Blake Proehl
As Blake set off to pursue his dream, he went to tryouts on American Idol to show his talents. With his grandma alongside for the tryout Blake performed a rendition of Brett Young’s “In Case You Didn’t Know” that gave judge Katy Perry goosebumps.
“If you allow us to be your coaches,” Perry said, “you’re going to be top ten.”
The two other judges, Luke Bryan and Lionel Richie, were also very impressed by Blake’s musical talents. He amazed the judges and would earn a rare sought after opportunity, the golden ticket, allowing him to make it to the first round of Hollywood week
