Former Illinois Football QB “A Pleasant Surprise” for Atlanta Falcons

Former Illinois Football QB “A Pleasant Surprise” for Atlanta Falcons

Per Daniel Flick of Falcon Report on Sports Illustrated, former Illinois Football QB, John Paddock, has been a pleasant surprise for the Atlanta Falcons. Paddock spent the majority of this past season as the backup quarterback in Champaign after playing 4 seasons at Ball State. After a late injury to starting QB, Luke Altmyer, Paddock took over on a 4th down while trailing at Minnesota. The rest was history as Paddock led the Illini to two successful wins including an over 500-yard passing performance. Paddock was not drafted in the 2024 NFL draft, however, signed an undrafted free-agent deal with the Atlanta Falcons. The fiery walk-on QB joins fellow Illini, Casey Washington, on the roster and seems to be impressing.

Instagram: @falconsformula
URL: https://www.instagram.com/p/C74cmjsgICX/

The Atlanta Falcons are in a bit of an odd situation. They signed a very old QB in Kirk Cousins to a very lucrative contract and subsequently used their 8th overall pick on Michael Penix Jr. The move shocked practically everyone who was watching, however, Illinois football fans will certainly tune into the team. The Falcons have Paddock and Washington who slowly became fan favorites during their time in Champaign. Both Paddock and Washington won Illinois football some very close games with their clutch end-of-game heroics.

Though the Falcons have two quarterbacks already, Paddock may have a shot at earning that 3rd or 4th string spot.

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