Cardinals Offensive Line Challenges Highlighted by Hjalte Froholdt's Journey

The Arizona Cardinals offensive line has faced significant challenges this season, particularly highlighted by center Hjalte Froholdt's impactful journey. According to 'Revenge of the Birds', the Cardinals have struggled with both guard spots, and while Will Hernandez's return from IR was expected to alleviate some issues, he has since returned to the injured reserve.

The tackle situation remains a mixed bag, but the center position has been a bright spot thanks to Froholdt's performance. At 29 years old, Froholdt has traveled extensively through his football career, arriving in Arizona in 2023 after playing for multiple teams.

He has quickly established himself as one of the top centers in the league, currently boasting a Pro Football Focus rating of 70.8, with a strong emphasis on his pass-blocking abilities. Versatility is key for Cardinals offensive linemen, and Froholdt exemplifies this trait well.

His journey began in Denmark, where he initially played rugby. At age 12, he switched to American football, joining the Svendborg Admirals team. His move to the United States as an exchange student in Warren, Ohio, allowed him to further develop his skills at Harding High School, where he played various positions.

After returning to Denmark for a year to play for the Sollerod Gold Diggers, he returned to the U.S. and played for the IMG Academy in Florida before accepting a scholarship from the University of Arkansas.

Froholdt played both guard and center during his college career, earning honors like Second Team All-SEC and serving as a team captain. He was drafted by the New England Patriots in the fourth round of the 2019 NFL Draft but faced injuries and roster changes that led him to the Texans and then the Cleveland Browns.

His time with the Browns was marked by positional flexibility but limited starting opportunities. In spring 2023, the Cardinals signed Froholdt to a two-year deal, seeking stability at center after years of inconsistency.

Following a strong training camp, he secured the starting role and has started all games since, including all 12 in the current season. The Cardinals rewarded his performance with a two-year, $12 million contract extension that includes $8 million guaranteed.

This extension solidifies his role in providing much-needed stability in the offensive line as the team looks ahead to free agency and the NFL Draft for further improvements. Overall, while the Cardinals offensive line has had its struggles, Hjalte Froholdt stands out as a reliable anchor at the center position for the foreseeable future.