Former NFL Player Blake Proehl Beautifully Sings His Way To An Idol Touchdown - American Idol 2024

Former NFL wide receiver for the Minnesota Vikings was told he may not ever run again after an injury on the field, but that lead him to finding his voice and music. His Grandma "Nana" pushed him to try out for American Idol, now Katy Perry calls him TOP 10!
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AMERICAN IDOL, the iconic series that revolutionized the television landscape by pioneering the music competition genre, returns on ABC.
American Idol 2024
Helping to determine who America will ultimately vote for to become the next singing sensation are music industry forces and superstar judges Luke Bryan, Katy Perry and Lionel Richie. Emmy® Award-winning host and producer Ryan Seacrest continues as host of the beloved series, for the historic 22nd season.

[@cherylannebarillartist7453]

You didn’t “lose” your career, you were redirected. Best wishes in this path!!!

[@caz8092]

How lovely xxx

[@jimdorsey3223]

Sometimes Destiny hits pretty hard on the path we’re on to divert us to the path we need to be on. GL Blake!

[@Jessy-A]

Lovely comment ❤

[@PhilGeissler]

Amen!

[@William-h9x]

He lost his career... This is a new career haha

[@gelanshion5051]

The way he said "im fine" "im cool" you can definitely feel that he's trying not to cry

[@bokbokboknoy7775]

That is optimism 😊

[@jaz6194]

Thank you for pointing that out, Mr. Obvious.

[@kerrykennison9720]

It’s ok I cried for u

[@taxidermydavid]

And that he's dealt with it in a healthy way.

[@Pimpjit85]

And if you look at the grandma close enough, she's likely older than the guy

[@91wheelz]

"just sign right here; you're not allowed to leave this show" 🤣 I think Katie's sense of humor is top notch

[@Shellywick456]

I think she was referring to Benson Boone. They all loved him and then he left. Then the next season Kennedi did the same thing.

[@rainbowstar2775]

thanks

[@Inikato]

Yes it's because of Benson 😅

[@juliejbird316]

I'm a Vikings fan and recognized his name right away. So happy for you Blake that you found singing after your injuries. Good job Nana!

[@TheTinyman97]

SKOLLLL

[@jiggy1752390]

I'm from a MN and Blake, we remember you and the devastating moment in your career. We still got love for you, Blake.

[@bobbybettyofficial72]

Thanks for loving him

[@ElonMusk4FreeSpeech]

When did he get hurt, how did it happen? I hate ACL injuries! I still hurt for Teddy Bridgewater over his horrific knee injury.

[@jiggy1752390]

Anytime!@@bobbybettyofficial72

[@jiggy1752390]

Happened in the beginning of Season 2022. His right knee buckled during a one-on-one drill in practice.@@ElonMusk4FreeSpeech

[@drealboy_]

No he blew all 3 ligaments in his knee and fractured his tibia ​@Vote4Life

[@johnsonjg1]

NFL needs to have him sing the National Anthem at the Super Bowl an actual NFL player would be wild

[@rainbowstar2775]

thanks

[@anthonynettleton8346]

That would be so good ..

[@Ariefpokto]

He got it all, The Voice, The looks , The charisma. He’s gonna get far in this season. Good Luck Blake. And The Nana is cute

[@thomasfoley4545]

Mom is a hottie too!

[@dawnbedingfield1159]

Completely agree. He'll probably win.

[@dawnbedingfield1159]

Plus you can tell he's humble, so he'll listen and learn and grow.

[@maccmayo]

seeing how supportive his grandmother is brought me to tears, I lost mine two years ago and it still kills me to this day. Love your family !

[@robbrent]

The sign of a close relationship with his grandma is a very good sign for me of a very decent human.

[@SamFocused]

I love how Blake embraced his destiny even when it hurt so much and came back with a clear focus on his blessings and passion. Great Audition 👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽

[@SusanKelly-o4c]

Terrifac

[@kathleencreamer6648]

Nana is stunning! Genetically blessed family and such a gifted young man.

[@rjprats3717]

Wow, that voice. I'm tearing up. It's so soft, smooth, and tender. I did not expect that at all. Pleasantly surprised. Early favorite, for sure.

[@amyb9147]

When one door closes, a bigger & better door opens..I think he found his calling❤️MNFan hope you make it to the top!

[@slackburngirl8593]

I hear something even better than Timberlake but that is what I hear … his voice drops so wonderfully quickly and his timing is amazing

[@CJSmallz41]

OMG!!! He can sing, play the piano, and he's gorgeous!!!!

[@brettduncan15]

We love Blake in Minnesota so happy he got this opportunity he deserves it!

[@craternose348]

I’m a firm believer in that everything happens for a reason, situations like this keep strengthening that belief.

[@bunga4354]

This is the second best rendition of "In Case You Didn't Know" I've ever heard. Thank you for blessing us, Blake. This will go down in the Top 10 of All Time.

[@Jay00780]

HA, NO

[@sirij8784]

whats the best rendition? the hawaiian guys?

[@ashleyjackson2735]

One of my favorites is Kirk Jay from the voice

[@bunga4354]

the original one bro@@sirij8784

[@karlnufc]

Nah Kirk Jays was awesome. Not saying this wasn't but I think Kirks was better

[@hersheythao]

Loved this man as a Vikings and love him even more now! Everything happens for a reason. Shine on brother. Looking forward to your American Idol journey. Good luck

[@jmatt4life]

He is raw, natural talent from North Carolina! WoooHooooo!!!

[@janicejanostak2545]

I think Katie's right - definitely top 10 material. America is going to fall in love with him

[@SylarbearG2a]

nah i think she`s lying. i don`t see him to reach top 10 but best of luck

[@jaydi8291]

He Mus going to shake the nerves because he’s okay but I don’t think top 10

[@jameelyusuf06yusuf27]

I think he might actually be top 2. His voice is naturally beautiful but what makes him dangerous are his NFL fan base and his looks. He’s def the runner-up dark horse of this season. Reminds me of Blake Lewis.

[@LaurenKaminski]

He reminds me of Colton Dixon or someone else!

[@brentfrey6960]

So good!

[@krbcan1]

He's got a very calming yet emotive voice. I actually liked him the best of all the contestants tonight. Good job!

[@thehoop74]

What a precious nana!!!! I was NOT expecting this!!!!!! What a beautiful voice!!! People are foing to fall head over heels for him!!!! Hes a beautiful soul!!! Top 20 for sure!!! Hopefully higher!!! Oh if i was younger.....

[@robertfarmer4691]

YOur grandma is so beautiful - lucky you to have such a loving family and help you recover and thrive

[@Swarat1962]

A star is born, And he is so humble and have not clue how naturally gifted he is . I can see him winning this. And if does not. He is going to have a record deal God bless him and Nanna

[@Paula-mv8im]

That's one of best things about American Idol. Even if a person doesn't win, they get so much exposure that helps them in their career.

[@Kim-rf5et]

He can sing beautifully his sweetness comes across and he's a major babe. This angelic voice, his emotional ways he's already a star I think he can win. There will be every girl voting for this dude. I almost cried listening to him. Very emotional and I'm a sucker for that!! Go Blake!!

[@jarenciogeda3930]

It is indeed a natural talent. Handsome, charming, sweet, and humble.

[@robertantonnyc]

on piano with that sweet tone, a little breathy. What is in the water this season? So emotional. Touching audition. - So You Wanna Be A Singer

[@kshooter33]

Katy making faces as usual--tears coming?

[@robertantonnyc]

Maybe she got something in her eye... @@kshooter33

[@jameelyusuf06yusuf27]

He’s going against McKenna in the finale. It’s happening.

[@robertantonnyc]

Dang, yall aint even seen all the auditions yet. lol@@jameelyusuf06yusuf27

[@robertantonnyc]

maybe she got something in her eye... @@kshooter33

[@johnvmi27]

This is truly a one door closes, another one opens story. I hope he goes all the way.

[@jhhayes7241]

Wow! He’s indeed a natural! That tone of his vocal is absolutely splendid! The way he emotes, his breathiness through the song and the way he drops his tone at the end of the verses (closing)is so good! He is a total package! I think it’s great the coaches will be able to tweak some of his vocals, but they don’t have to do much. He sorta reminds me of the dude from Kentucky who won the show. He , too, came in raw and eager to take the coaches advice. We’re talking about 2 different vocals and Blake’s is special. I do see him going through a long journey on Idol. 🙏

[@nikki4870]

I am an instant fan. I will buy anything he sells. I am not easily moved. . .but this guy is a gem. Thank you for sharing your voice. KEEP singing. You warm the heart ❤️ 🤗

[@ArcticOppz]

I grew up watching his father as a Panthers fan. What I love most about this guy is, he’s humble. His dad is rich, he has money as well, yet he’s wearing worn out shoes. Goes to show he was raised right. He will go far. Great voice.

[@triffus]

This is such a personal story. No one knows what it's like to be an elite level athlete and have it al taken away from you. I have. It's still my heartbreak,. and i still deal with it day to day. I haven't even clicked the part where he sings, but i love this man. I wasn't a football player, but i was a world champion in my sport. Feel you buddy.

[@cubnation]

@triffus, I'm sorry to read that you were injured. I agree with you one hundred percent. Blake still looks heartbroken and sad. 🥺 I hope you and he are able to move forward. A broken heart still keeps beating, but there is pain for a very long, long time. I pray that your heart will heal. ❤❤

[@karenhardie1132]

Can't imagine retirement at age 24. The nfl is a brutal sport. 😢

[@David-pm9mn]

Find your story hard to believe. Most champions don't flat out say I'm a world champion lol

[@cubnation]

@@David-pm9mn I find it easy to believe that you are a mean-spirited know-it-all. I 😑

[@David-pm9mn]

@@cubnation haha kinda mean-spirited to say someone else is? Hmmmm

[@dadvsdiabetes4621]

Total package. Sings pretty good. Great looks which gets tons of votes. Humble. Top 4 calling it now

[@shelly9317]

Wow. He’s been through so much, getting his dream and then having it ripped away, but now he’s been able to pull himself up and find a new one. Such a talented, handsome, humble young man. It’s impossible to listen to him without feeling something.

[@JenShea]

That was SPECIAL. He is blessed.

[@zoomzoomgt]

Im not crying!! You are!!! What a soft spoken young lad he seems very genuine humble young man. Hope he goes far!

[@kameronmachan3321]

The look grandma gives watching him play you can tell I just gives her life ❤

[@rosalynalvaro74]

He has a voice....the looks...very humble looking......love him already..❤

[@MNClassicJJ]

SKOL Vikings! Blake is an awesome talent! Rooting for you to win American Idol! 🙏

[@dshom]

His voice makes me cry it is so beautiful. I hope he goes so far he deserves it.

[@throughfaithandgrace2970]

His grandma is beautiful!

[@thechief1850]

I remember when this kid got hurt. Devastating. I experienced a career ending injury as well and fell back on music. I’m no where near as talented as him, but I understand why music is so powerful in his life.

[@Odee4hundred]

My grandma is on the last days of her life this video made me break down in tears i love you Grandma.

[@trapoganda1660]

He misses the game, i do too, i broke my back in high school sophomore year. I didn’t get to Blake’s level. I had offers as a freshman, jacksonville state, kentucky, florida, and south carolina where my dad played at. I led the state in forced fumbles until i was hurt, i lost everything.. i’m 23 now and i just had my 1st born child, athletes can recover, but please remember it is a real struggle everyday for us who dedicate 100% to a sport planning to “make it” and get cut down short, always was told to have a backup plan that’s life, but no one plans to get hurt the way Blake and I did, congratulations to him for finding his niche after the game, i’m still on my way but i’m on track, god is good 🙌🏽

[@crystalbluewaters]

From the few i've watched, blake's voice is wowza. He could, should be on the radio now

[@Karinabell09]

I love how Blake got music out of football cause of his injury. He has such an amazing voice. He is definitely top 10 material or even top 2. I am a Minnesota Vikings fan I remembered when he played for us

[@bobbybettyofficial72]

My grandma is my heartbeat, thanks for loving your grandma

[@mikecarroll1617]

You were never meant to play football my friend. You were put on this planet to do, what you just did. It was beautiful, have a great life❤

[@Gracen26]

I'd never heard of him until this episode aired. Having a dream athletic career stolen from you right in front of your eyes, is something I can relate to, and it's so devastating. Soul crushing. I still have a passion for the sport I played. He's close with his grandmother, and so am I. But this was definitely my favorite audition(aside from Leah Marlene, season 20; she's a great friend of mine). But Blake man, he managed to bring some tears to my eyes.

[@Eleventhhour113]

Vikings fan here. Cheering for you Blake. Get it done!!

[@angelo2423]

What a voice by this young man. He definitely has a future in the music industry. I remember watching his dad play, he was on that 99 Rams team. The greatest show on turf. Good luck on American Idol.

[@ericscornerky]

This is a True Story of how one door closes... God opens up another door for opportunity!

[@francescacastiglione7094]

So sweet. He’s handsome and can sing! And his Nana is beautiful!

[@bigal1337]

You were a great wide receiver and now you’ll be a great singer! Way to go Nana!

[@john.hughes]

I found this more emotional than most auditions. So natural. A certain moment.

[@ItsMe-yv9jd]

Nanas are the best... miss mine more than anything in the world!

[@vicentewspcolunga2719]

I'm from Minnesota and I just gotta say we miss you Blake 🏈 🏈 🏈 you definitely were redirected bro.. You have a God given talent and people need to hear you. It's your other gift. God Bless you on your new journey 🙏🙏🙏

[@christinem.4618]

Cheering you on from Minneapolis Blake! Hope you win it all!

[@justinwilliams2593]

I think he will DEFFF win this years American idol. That was incredible he’s got it all and from 704 respect it

[@ilseehz]

I don’t know what was I expecting with this one but it surely wasn’t finding my new favorite male vocalist. So smooth and natural, hits home ❤ I’m all in

[@mimiwhite1963]

Life gives us the unexpected challenge and you are going to have America's heart . This was beautiful

[@branchk]

this made me cry my granny passed christmas morning last year and she is the most kind hearted sothern women you would ever meet and i miss her so much

[@gin5694]

SKOL! Minnesotas rooting for you Blake

[@williamlynch9371]

Keep doing songs like u started out with ❤ that song is yours 😂 see you on tour😊

[@sherylscott5529]

Instantly in love with him & his Grandma! What beautiful people! He is so humble, I hope he has a fabulous life! ❤

[@emyrdaniela6037]

My Nana raised me and I miss her every day. So I feel this. Good on you Blake.

[@vanessaJeans]

he has a really nice voice. I can't wait to hear more music from him.

[@swiftie.makayla]

Blake has some music that he has released on Spotify

[@vanessaJeans]

thank you@@swiftie.makayla

[@propool1]

Good for him. I remember his Dad Ricky playing football. Very well respected receiver and one of the greatest talents of his days in the NFL. I had him on my fantasy team for a couple years. He was a knockout sleeper. It's a shame Blake had to end his career early. But it may have been a blessing instead.

[@Sandro-ij7te]

Life should be beautiful even if you wont become a Superstar

[@reginaagustine5254]

He’ll be the American idol 2024. ❤️🇳🇿

[@Nay7373]

He’s from my state and played for my favorite team!!!! I’m rooting for him.

[@stevenchurney2416]

Katie's so adorable. Can't help but REACT on POINT

[@debschmolke5290]

Loved you as one of my MN Vikings…love you just as much as a singer! So talented. Good Luck Blake! ❤️

[@offclDEIBEU]

He is full package. I love the tone of his voice. Great audition. I'm looking forward to his next performances.

[@MrLee23]

And this dude is right up there as well.. great voice.

[@monicaq.Bailey1018]

He’s got heart! He’s a natural inside and out! He definitely deserves to have this happen for him! A man with such a loving & sense heart.. he’s dreams should be fulfilled ❤️❤️❤️

[@nubainrn5100]

To be able to do nfl and sing like that. Man you are blessed so blessed , best of luck brother.

[@jefferybeckham9053]

Get it young man. This Vet Salutes you

[@leahmullican]

He has an amazing voice! With his NaNa standing there next to him by the piano was a precious moment!!

[@vernonwood1311]

It's sweet that he lost all he had worked for but has the talent to go another rought to succeed. Now he doesn't have to worry about an injury taking it all away.

[@AR-gh1pc]

Wow. He’s definitely moving energy and emotion through his voice. I have literally never gotten goosebumps listening to a singer and I was right with Katie. Very rarely a vocalist will really move me and make me emotional, aside from even hearing lyrics- just the resonance and quality of the voice coming through (Joan Baez is one.. ) and he surprisingly had that effect on me. I’m an artist/(Art Therapist) and I’ve also been through quite a bit. I do think when you’ve suffered or experienced a serious illness or injury it can open you up and the level of vulnerability and authenticity you bring to your expression can really make an impact on others. It’s very cool that he has this new avenue to explore after such a disheartening loss.

[@juliannac603]

definitely top 10! he's amazing and his song choice!

[@juancalafell2949]

A grandmother always say the true ❤

[@TruthBeToldbyBab]

I cried for no apparent reason while I was snacking and browsing randomly on a fine happy weekend, every single memory of the one that got away flooding in my head, which I thought had long ago sailed away. Man you have it, you can make people cry with those pipes, his delivery carried so much conviction. ❤

[@elllekelly2215]

Blake my ❤.. God Bless you × your Nana.. Stay the Path!! Your Destiny is to sing!! Nana knew ...You have a Gift!! 🙏 ♥ 👏 🎶

[@rachelmichaelson-thefam9346]

Blake has so much talent you could feel every moment and the love, passion, trust he has for not only the judges but his grandmother and coming from someone being me who has always said that my grandmothers are my world and they are who has shaped me into who I am today I truly believe that Blake is going to go along way in this competition. I believe that he is going to truly surprise us all. Look out here comes Blake! Well done Blake!

[@victorialambert8146]

Right there with you Katie! My chillbumps even went down my legs! Beautiful voice!! So much range!! ❤ He will have this old Grandmas heart!!!

[@ryanu8082]

His grandma made me so wish I could give mine a hug again. ❤️

[@kimmartin227]

Skol Blake!! Cheering you on from MN!!

[@newfie_mom7300]

Aww! His grandma is beautiful. She takes good care of herself. And she loves her family. You can tell.

[@TwentyTwo_ccg]

This is awesome! Been following Blake awhile and it’s so fun to see him on American Idol. Good job Blake! Skol!

[@dmcfarlane4976]

Man, that was so heartfelt and I was teary throughout. Good on you young man and keep hugging your Nana! Fantastic voice.

[@mitchieian2232]

He will be a superstar!!! He has it!!! that voice. that range. that soul ♥️♥️♥️👏👏👏👏😍😍😍😍

[@monicagrag7085]

I hope you win the American idol you are the best I vote for you 100 times over your a great singer and you deserve to be the winner love the voice and you do have it God bless you

[@williamlynch9371]

😂

[@heidia6270]

lol Katie! I love his voice and the song! Go Blake! 👏👏👏

[@tinh1099]

Definitely, a touchdown scored for him... From all those actions to this.. wow.. goosebumps... ❤❤❤❤

[@beckyobryan489]

AWESOME!!! This is one of my favorite songs. He does it justice.

[@seena2212]

i’ve heard of him and his music and know he was a viking. he has such a refreshing tone and keeps it simple and lets us understand the lyrics and emotion. has a good voice and doesn’t overdo it like some contestants do. he can improve and definitely will get more comfortable stage wise he can be a front runner and can win the show if he improves.

[@npik7329]

Nothing to say except...he will be the American Idol 2024 winner....no need to listen to anybody else...its cristal clear for me. Last time i knew someone will win on the 1st audition was Noah 2 years ago...as Katie said...hes just a carpenter...but i think Blake might be even a bigger star.

[@CH-jo7wf]

What a beautiful grandmother. So sweet

[@jordanpulsipher6848]

Well I know who I will be cheering for this season! 🎉

[@lk8427]

Was excited for Blake’s future as a member of my home team Vikings and then devastated by the news of his injury. Now even more excited and feel God may have said - i have a different way for you to make people happy!