As the NFL Scouting Combine kicks off in Indianapolis, the buzz is all about which prospects will elevate their draft stock. One name to watch?
Georgia's offensive tackle, Monroe Freeling. ESPN's Field Yates has his eyes on Freeling, and it's easy to see why.
Standing tall at 6-foot-7 and weighing in at 315 pounds, Freeling is a top-tier athlete among offensive linemen, ready to showcase his smooth footwork and transitions that have made him a standout pass protector.
Freeling's journey through the 2025 season was nothing short of impressive. He played in all 14 games, starting 13, and earned a spot on the SEC Coaches All-SEC Second Team.
With two SEC Offensive Lineman of the Week honors under his belt, Freeling's consistency and skill have not gone unnoticed. Over three seasons at Georgia, he racked up 35 game appearances with 17 starts, proving his reliability and talent on the field.
Georgia's head coach, Kirby Smart, has been vocal about Freeling's impact, praising his demeanor, character, and leadership. Smart highlighted Freeling's growth mindset and humility, noting how he never settles and is always looking to improve. "He approaches the game the right way," Smart said, emphasizing Freeling's readiness to face top-tier opponents week in and week out.
Freeling's resilience was on full display during the Auburn game. Despite an ankle injury against Kentucky that left his participation in doubt, Freeling was determined to play.
Listed as a game-time decision, he didn't warm up pre-game, yet when called upon, he delivered. Entering the game in the second quarter, Freeling was a force at left tackle, credited with four knockdown blocks and allowing no pressures or sacks.
His performance was crucial as Georgia went 3-for-3 in the red zone.
Coach Smart couldn't help but admire Freeling's toughness and grit. "He texted me and said, 'Coach, I'm going on this trip and I'm playing.
And I'm gonna be ready,'" Smart recounted. Freeling's determination to put the team first, even when dealing with injury, speaks volumes about his competitive character.
His efforts were pivotal, especially when the team faced adversity with another player's injury.
As the Combine unfolds, keep an eye on Monroe Freeling. His blend of size, skill, and tenacity makes him a compelling prospect, and it's no surprise that he's climbing draft boards. Whether he cracks the top 10 remains to be seen, but one thing's for sure: Freeling's future in the NFL looks bright.