Cole Kelley is headed to the NFL.
Despite going undrafted, the former Teurlings Catholic star and Southeastern Louisiana record-setting quarterback will still get an opportunity to play in the pros. Kelley has signed an undrafted free agent deal with the Washington Commanders.
Kelley was a record-setting quarterback in his three seasons playing for the Lions.
After serving as a backup in 2019, Kelley had a breakout season during the spring of 2021 when he threw for 2,662 yards with 18 touchdowns and four interceptions, while also rushing for a team-high seven touchdowns.
Kelley was named the Southland Conference Offensive Player of the Year, earned multiple All-American honors and received the FCS Walter Payton Award — which is the FCS equilvant of the Heisman Memorial Trophy.
Kelley was a finalist for the Walter Payton Award again in the fall as he threw for 3,634 yards, 31 TD and 6 INT while rushing for 12 touchdowns.
Prior to his time at Southeastern Louisiana, Kelley played in 18 games, including six starts, at the University of Arkansas. Kelley threw for 1,483 yards and 13 touchdowns, while rushing for five more in time in Fayetteville.