Illinois added Ole Miss transfer quarterback Luke Altmyer earlier this offseason and doubled down Monday afternoon, adding a commitment from Ball State QB John Paddock.

Paddock will join the team as a walk-on, but is expected to be strong competition for Altmyer as Illinois’ backup next season. He saw starting experience for the first time in 2022 after serving as Ball State’s backup for 4 seasons prior. Ball State finished 2022 with a 5-7 record under Paddock’s lead.

As you can see above, Paddock was one of the better quarterbacks in the MAC this past season, despite some turnover issues. He adds needed depth at the QB position, with all 3 of last season’s QBs now gone from the playing field, though Art Sitkowski is now an assistant with the Illini.