Charlotte native and former NFL player Blake Proehl impresses American Idol judges, off to Hollywood

CHARLOTTE (QUEEN CITY NEWS) — Hello Hollywood! A Charlotte native and former NFL player impressed American Idol judges over the weekend, receiving the coveted golden ticket.

Blake Proehl, who was a wide receiver with the Minnesota Vikings, sang “In case you didn’t know” by Brett Young to judges Katy Perry, Luke Bryan, and Lionel Ritchie.

“Listen, every grandma thinks that their grandchildren are great, but you’re RIGHT!” Perry said to Blake’s grandmother, who attended the nail-biting audition.

The 25-year-old was born in Greensboro and grew up in Charlotte where he attended Providence High School before heading off to East Carolina in 2018, playing for the Pirates.

Blake was signed with the Vikings shortly after the conclusion of the 2021 NFL Draft. While with the Vikings, Blake suffered a knee injury and was placed on injured reserve.

In January 2023, Blake signed a reserve/future contract. He was waived in August.

Blake remains a free agent.

His appearance on American Idol aired on Sunday, Feb. 18, 2024, where he successfully made it to the Hollywood rounds. You can catch his audition on Hulu.

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