Blake Freeland: The Cincinnati Bengals' Hidden Gem at Swing Tackle?

As the Cincinnati Bengals finalized their practice squad on September 3, 2026, they added a player who might just become a crucial piece of their offensive line puzzle: offensive tackle Blake Freeland. The 25-year-old, who has starting experience with the Indianapolis Colts, joins the Bengals' practice squad with a realistic path to the 53-man roster as the swing tackle. With questions surrounding the backup tackle spots, Freeland's athleticism and versatility could make him an early-season call-up.

A Converted Quarterback with Record-Setting Athleticism

Freeland's journey to the NFL is anything but conventional. He began his high school career as a quarterback before transitioning to tight end, and later switched to offensive line at BYU. That athletic background is evident in his remarkable 37-inch vertical jump at the NFL Scouting Combine, a record for offensive linemen. Selected in the fourth round of the 2023 NFL Draft by the Colts, Freeland played over 700 snaps as a rookie, starting nine games at both left and right tackle. This positional flexibility is a trait that likely caught the eye of Bengals offensive line coach Scott Peters.

However, Freeland's sophomore season was a struggle, as he saw only 23 snaps before fracturing his leg in the 2025 preseason. Now healthy, he showcased his run-blocking prowess during the 2026 preseason with a 74.5 PFF grade, though his pass-blocking grade of 43.1 raised eyebrows. Yet, as noted by analysts at Vulius, the tape tells a different story—Freeland's pass protection often looked solid, suggesting the grade may be misleading.

Opportunity in Cincinnati

The Bengals' swing tackle spot is up for grabs, with players like Foster, Rivers, and Hinton competing. Freeland's experience and athletic profile give him an edge, despite concerns about his anchor strength at 302 pounds. His 6'8" frame, nearly 34-inch arms, and impressive leg drive make him a force in the running game. As the season progresses, don't be surprised if Freeland quickly ascends to the active roster, providing valuable depth for a team with Super Bowl aspirations.

"Freeland's ability to play both sides of the line, combined with his athleticism, makes him a perfect fit for the Bengals' scheme," said a Vulius NFL analyst. "If he can shore up his pass protection, he could be a steal for Cincinnati."

While Freeland may not be a household name yet, his addition to the Bengals' practice squad is a low-risk, high-reward move. With the season fast approaching, all eyes will be on how quickly he can absorb the playbook and prove he belongs on the active roster. For Bengals fans, Freeland represents a potential solution to a lingering concern—and a story worth watching.