Former Trojans shine in NFL Preseason

While the Trojans do not take the field for a few more weeks, multiple former men of Troy are getting their shot at the professional level during the NFL preseason games. 

Troy currently has six former players listed on preseason rosters, including one rookie in Landon Parker. The wide receiver made his first professional football appearance for the Indianapolis Colts last Thursday against the Baltimore Ravens. He recorded a four yard reception on his sole target. Parker was signed as an undrafted free agent after an impressive showing at Troy’s Pro Day in March. 

Running back Kimani Vidal has continued to find a larger role with the Los Angeles Chargers. The 2023 Sun Belt Offensive Player of the Year tallied 155 yards last season. In the Hall of Fame Game against the Detroit Lions, Vidal rushed for two touchdowns off nine carries and 37 yards. 

Troy Athletics photo

Kimani Vidal celebrates after scoring a touchdown in 2023.

Another class of 2024 draftee, Javon Solomon saw a notable amount of action for a fifth round pick. The defensive end forced and recovered a fumble last season along while logging two sacks. He should  continue to build experience in the early stages of his pro career this season. 

Jake Andrews remains the highest drafted Trojan over the last eight years thanks to his fourth round, 107th overall selection to the New England Patriots. He now looks poised to take on a role as the  backup center for the Houston Texans. 

Former Troy cornerback Reddy Steward faced off against Andrews in the first week of the preseason. Steward saw action in the 20-10 Minnesota Vikings win against the Texans. He is entering his second season in the league. Steward joins the Skol nation after spending 2024 with the Chicago Bears. 

Last but not least, Dell Pettus has found his place in New England. Despite being undrafted last year, he became a strong contributor to the Patriots’ secondary. Pettus managed 19 solo and 34 total tackles and even a sack from the safety position last year. 

Two more weeks remain in the NFL preseason. The group of former Trojans each look to either earn their way onto a 53-man roster, or prove they deserve more action during the regular season. The NFL regular season officially kicks off on Sept. 4.