Specialist Paul Geelen signs with Ottawa Redblacks of Canadian Football League

CARBONDALE, Ill. — Southern Illinois specialist Paul Geelen reported to the Ottawa Redblacks training camp today after signing a contract with the Canadian Football League franchise.

A native of the Netherlands, Geelen was selected by Ottawa in the CFL Global Draft on April 29, but participated in a rookie tryout with the Denver Broncos before signing with the Redblacks.

Ottawa began its training camp a week ago and plays its first exhibition game on May 29.

In 2025, Geelen was 15-of-17 on field goals, with his only two misses coming from 51 and 59 yards. He was perfect on PATs, and also averaged 41 yards per punt attempt.

Geelen is one of six Saluki alums on active pro rosters, joining Jeremy Chinn (Las Vegas Raiders), PJ Jules (Cincinnati Bengals), Jeremiah McClendon (New Orleans Saints), James Ceasar (Toronto Argonauts) and Cameron Dye (Calgary Stampeders).