Ex-NFL Player Blake Proehl Stuns American Idol Judges With Chart-Topping Country Cover

Former NFL player Blake Proehl nearly left the American Idol judges speechless with his performance of Brett Young’s “In Case You Didn’t Know” during his memorable Idol audition. 

The 24-year-old first shared his powerful story of perseverance revealing that he was previously signed to the Minnesota Vikings, but that an injury sidelined his football career. 

Is Blake Proehl Still With The Vikings?

“I went through a really tough injury…I tore a bunch of stuff. I don’t want to get graphic,” Proehl, whose father, Ricky Proehl, played in the NFL for 17 years, shared. “They just said, ‘Hey, it’ll be a success story if you’re able to just run again in general.’” 

Visibly overcome with emotions, Proehl admitted, “That was definitely the toughest time for sure.”

He Was Unable To Walk After His Injury

After being unable to walk for “so long,” the Charlotte, North Carolina native turned to music in what was the most difficult time of his life so far. 

“That’s where music kind of came in and saved me. My grandma is the reason why I’m here. I really didn’t believe in myself at all music wise and she’s the reason why I have any confidence at all to be in this room,” he said. 

Per the request of Idol judge Katy Perry, Proehl brought his nana into the audition room and sat down at the piano for his performance. 

What Did Blake Proehl Sing For His Audition?

With his nana by his side, the aspiring young singer delivered an emotional performance of “In Case You Didn’t Know.” As he sang, the judges exchanged looks of approval and shed a few tears. 

At the end of his performance, Perry and Lionel Richie enthusiastically rose from their seats to applaud the contestant, while Luke Bryan remained seated, clapping in appreciation. 

What Did The Judges Think Of His Audition?

Perry told his nana, “Listen, every grandma thinks that their grandchildren are great, but you are right!”

She then requested that the judges panel “get serious” to determine Proehl’s future in the competition and predicted that the contestant with land in the “top 10.”  

Bryan then took a moment to share his thoughts.

“You just did that song the right way in a very believable way, in a very innocent, vulnerable, like every girl that you sit down and sing that to, they’re going to be melted butter. Kind of like this one a minute ago, but it was just a real moment,” the country superstar complimented. 

Richie then added, “I wrote one thing down here that stood out: natural. It’s just one of those things that either you have it or you don’t, and in this case, my friend…Blake, you have stepped into an oval with guts and gusto.” 

Did Blake Proehl Receive A Golden Ticket?

It was then revealed that Blake Proehl earned a coveted Golden Ticket to Hollywood. 

After his audition aired, Proehl shared his excitement on social media by posting a selfie with his Golden Ticket. 

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Blake Proehl (@blakeproehl)

Brett Young Reacted

Chart-topping country star, Brett Young, chimed in after as well, complimenting the singer on a job well done. 

“Great job @blakeproehl! Good luck,” he wrote. 

American Idol returned on Sunday, February 18 for its 22nd season. Airing on ABC, the season premiere introduced viewers to a new crop of rising stars. 

Idol will return next Sunday at 8/7c on ABC.