Jared Mueller, a lifelong Cleveland Browns fan from Sandusky, Ohio, and the Producer for *Dawgs By Nature*, has been covering the team for over a decade, contributing to outlets like FanSided, The OBR, and USA Today.
Over the years, the number of former Cleveland Browns players making an impact across the NFL has steadily increased. It wasn’t long ago that it was a major headline when a former Browns player earned significant playing time or even started for another team, reflecting the team’s struggles at the time.
However, despite a turbulent 2024 season that sees the Browns playing out games with little postseason hope, former Browns players are now thriving on teams all over the league, with several even holding key starting roles.
The current Browns roster still boasts several talented players, and fans are hopeful that Myles Garrett, Joel Bitonio, and David Njoku will make the Pro Bowl this year. But one name that stands out in an unexpected way is Hjalte Froholdt, a former Browns player who wasn’t on many “Pro Bowl sleeper” lists but is now earning recognition. The NFL Network has even spotlighted Froholdt for his impressive play with the Arizona Cardinals:
Froholdt, a versatile blocker, has become a key part of the Cardinals’ offense. He’s been instrumental in providing protection for Kyler Murray and contributing to the team’s successful running game. According to Pro Football Focus, Froholdt has yet to allow a sack in 10 games, recording three QB hits and 10 hurries. His mobility and ability to excel in space have helped make Arizona one of the NFL’s top screen teams in 2024. After a strong preseason, Froholdt earned a contract extension, solidifying his place in Arizona’s offensive line.
Froholdt’s career journey has been anything but linear. Drafted in the fourth round by the New England Patriots, he was released after just one season and bounced around practice squads with the Texans and Browns. It wasn’t until 2023, when he joined the Cardinals, that he found the right fit, following former Browns offensive coordinator Drew Petzing to Arizona.
During his two seasons with Cleveland, Froholdt appeared in 23 games, including six starts, and played 592 offensive snaps in 2022. He also contributed on special teams.
Froholdt’s story is a testament to how a player’s potential can take time to fully develop. Although he was initially released after his rookie year and spent time on practice squads, he’s now thriving in Arizona, possibly on track for a Pro Bowl appearance—proof that sometimes the right opportunity and a bit of patience can bring out the best in a player.
