The Indianapolis Colts faced a significant setback during their preseason game against the Green Bay Packers on August 26, 2023, as offensive lineman Blake Freeland suffered a fractured right leg. The injury occurred in the first half of the match, leading to Freeland being carted off the field. Head Coach Shane Steichen confirmed the diagnosis following the Colts’ 23-19 defeat.
Freeland was injured early in the second quarter during a running play on third-and-1. As the play concluded, his right leg became pinned beneath other players, forcing him to the ground. Medical staff attended to Freeland for several minutes before securing his leg in a boot. Teammates gathered around to offer their support as he was lifted onto the back of a golf cart.
“Injuries are part of the game and part of the journey,” Steichen remarked. “Everyone, at some point, if they play enough in this league, is going to have an injury. It’s all about how you approach your rehabilitation and knowing there’s a plan for your life in this game.”
Freeland’s injury adds to the challenges facing an offensive line that had already struggled against Green Bay’s pass rush during joint practices earlier in the week. The three-year veteran from Brigham Young University was expected to back up Braden Smith and potentially serve as the team’s swing tackle.
The injury woes continued for the Colts, as Smith was ruled out of the game in the second quarter due to a groin injury. With both players sidelined, rookie Jalen Travis may step into a starting role during the Colts’ preseason finale against Cincinnati on September 2, 2023.
“Travis got quite a bit of time out there today, and I’m really pleased with him,” Steichen noted. “He’s a big-bodied tackle, a smart football player. He’s got great power and great hands at the line of scrimmage, so I’m really pleased with his progression and where he’s at.”
As the Colts prepare for their upcoming season opener against the Miami Dolphins on September 7, 2023, they will need to address the impact of these injuries on their offensive line. The team is hopeful that Freeland’s recovery will be swift, allowing him to contribute later in the season.