John Paddock While several former Illinois football players were left undrafted in the 2024 NFL Draft, many still managed to sign with professional teams in hopes of making a mark and catching the eye of coaches.
One notable player affected by the recent roster cuts was John Paddock. Paddock, who had been with the Atlanta Falcons, found himself among those released this weekend. With a highly competitive quarterback room in Atlanta, the decision was made to part ways with him.
Paddock wasn’t the only former Illini facing an uncertain future. Keith Randolph Jr., a former defensive lineman for Illinois, was also cut from his NFL roster. Randolph was waived by the Chicago Bears on Saturday, leaving him in search of new opportunities.
The Chicago Bears have significant depth on their defensive line, featuring a formidable starting quartet comprised of Montez Sweat, Andrew Billings, Gervon Dexter Sr., and DeMarcus Walker. Additionally, emerging defensive end Austin Booker adds to the team’s strong defensive front.
Although Randolph is no longer with the Bears, his contributions to the Illinois football program remain significant. It’s always disheartening to see a former Illini player released from an NFL team, as their success not only impacts their personal lives but also reflects positively on the program that developed them.
Despite being waived by the Bears, there is still a possibility that Randolph could join another NFL team. Even if he doesn’t continue in professional football, his achievements with the Illini should not be overlooked. Randolph was a key part of a formidable defensive line at Illinois, accumulating 10 sacks over his final three seasons and recording 144 tackles during that period.
While it’s disappointing to see Randolph’s time with the Bears come to an end, it’s important to remember that this isn’t the final chapter in his career. There are still opportunities ahead for him, whether in the NFL or beyond. Randolph’s impact at Illinois was significant, and his future prospects remain promising despite this setback.
