According to the official Illinois football media team, the Atlanta Falcons have signed Illinois quarterback John Paddock to become an undrafted free agent. After drafting one of his favorite targets in Casey Washington, the Falcons bring in Paddock to compete for the third quarterback spot against veteran Taylor Heinicke.
Paddock is best known for his 507-yard performance leading the Illini to a 48-45 overtime win against Indiana. This happened a week after closing out their game against Minnesota going 3-for-3 and 85 yards, including the game-winning touchdown.
Relive the final drive from Illinois’ 27-26 win over Minnesota.
The fourth generation Illini following his great grandfather, grandfather, & uncle who were all #Illini football players, John Paddock leads Illinois down the field, with the help of Isaiah Williams, for the win. pic.twitter.com/jLkHjUvjYm
— Illinois Football Focus (@IlliniFB) November 5, 2023
After a weekend full of quarterback takes (and surely months, if not years to follow), it’s nice to see the Falcons have a bit of fun with the position.