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Tom Waddle
Tom Waddle
from Wikipedia

Gregory Thomas Waddle (born February 20, 1967) is an American former professional football player who was a wide receiver in the National Football League (NFL). Waddle is currently a co-host of "Waddle and Silvy" on ESPN 1000, and a football analyst for WLS-TV in Chicago.[1] He also appears on Pro Football Weekly and NFL Network. He spent his entire six-year career with the Chicago Bears. He attended Boston College.

Key Information

College career

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Waddle was a receiver for the Boston College Eagles. He is sixth all-time in career receptions with 139, and amassed 1,956 yards and six touchdowns. Waddle finished his collegiate career first on the school's all-time list for receptions in a season with 70 in 1988, and is tied for first in all-time receptions in a single game with 13 against TCU in 1988. Waddle was a first-team All-East selection in 1988 and made appearance in the Japan Bowl. His achievements at BC resulted in his induction into the Boston College Varsity Club Athletic Hall of Fame in 1998.[2] He also played alongside Doug Flutie's younger brother, Darren Flutie.

  • 1985: 8 catches for 122 yards.
  • 1986: 18 catches for 160 yards and 1 touchdown.
  • 1987: 43 catches for 781 yards.
  • 1988: 70 catches for 902 yards and 5 touchdowns.

Professional career

[edit]

In 1989, the Chicago Bears signed Waddle as an undrafted free agent. During his first two years with the Bears, he struggled to make an impact as a receiver. Waddle lacked the size and speed to distinguish himself from other Bears wide receivers and remained on the lower rungs of the team's depth chart. He received a chance to start in 1991 after the Bears lost starters due to injuries. In a nationally televised Monday night game against the Jets, he made eight catches for 102 yards in an overtime win.[3] In Chicago's wild card playoff loss to Dallas (17–13), Waddle was the Bears' sole standout performer on the offensive side of the ball, catching nine passes for 104 yards and a touchdown. His performance established him as a mainstay in the Bears lineup and clinched him a spot on the famed All-Madden team.[4][5]

In 1992, Waddle began the season as a starting wide receiver and became a fan favorite. In the opener against the Detroit Lions, he caught a last second game-winning touchdown pass from Jim Harbaugh. Later in a week 4 victory over the Falcons, he managed to outrun Deion Sanders into the endzone for a score. Waddle missed the final four games of the season because of injury.

After finishing the 1992 season with a record of 5–11, coach Mike Ditka was fired and Dallas Cowboys defensive coordinator Dave Wannstedt was brought in to replace him.[4] After leading the Bears in receiving yards and receptions in 1993,[6] Wannstedt demoted Waddle in favor of faster receivers.[7] Later that year, he suffered a concussion and a partially torn knee ligament from an illegal hit by Tampa Bay Buccaneers defensive back Thomas Everett.[8] The following off-season, the Bears offered Waddle a choice between a guaranteed contract at the league minimum salary, and a more lucrative deal that would be dissolved if he were cut. He instead attended the Cincinnati Bengals' training camp, but elected to retire, as he felt that his lingering leg injuries no longer allowed him to compete at the professional level.[7]

Broadcasting career

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Waddle in 2012.

Television

[edit]

After retiring from football, Waddle began working on WFLD FOX 32 as the host of weekend football-oriented programs. Waddle covered previews and post-game shows for Bears games. During this time, he also began to work as a weekend and fill-in sports anchor. He later worked with Corey McPherrin to host and the Chicago Bears Gameday Live, Fox Kickoff Sunday and The Final Word.[9][10]

Waddle's joined WLS ABC 7 in August 2013 after his contract expired with WFLD.[1] Waddle is a regular contributor on the station's morning show, and continues to provide analysis on Bears-themed programming.[9]

Waddle also began working with the NFL Network in Los Angeles as a gameday analyst in 2007.[11] In 2013, he began working as a guest analyst for Colin Cowherd's Colin's New Football Show.[12]

Radio

[edit]

In 1997, Waddle began co-hosting Sports Central with David Kaplan on weeknights. This partnership ended in 2007 with his move to WMVP ESPN Radio 1000.[9]

Waddle was paired with Marc "Silvy" Silverman and their show was expanded to four hours to include weekly, one-hour in-studio segments with WLS-TV sports anchor Mark Giangreco. During football season, Waddle and Silverman hosted "The Jay Cutler Show" with Chicago Bears quarterback Jay Cutler on Mondays or Tuesdays following each Bears game until Cutler's departure from Chicago.[13]

On several occasions in 2008 and 2009, Waddle appeared as a fill-in host, alongside Mike Greenberg, on Mike and Mike in the Morning on ESPN Radio. He and Silverman have also hosted The Scott Van Pelt Show.

Other media

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Waddle appears weekly during the football season on Pro Football Weekly. He writes a weekly article about the Bears for the Northwest Herald of McHenry County, Illinois.[14]

He is also a color commentator during CSN Chicago broadcasts of Northern Illinois Huskies football games and for a limited number of Chicago Rush games aired on the NFL Network.[15]

Personal life

[edit]

Waddle lives in Lake Forest with his wife, Cara and 4 daughters. Waddle's wife Cara is the daughter of former Boston Patriots wide receiver and AFL Hall of Famer Gino Cappelletti. His oldest daughter Georgia was a member of the Northwestern Wildcats soccer team.[16]

References

[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia
from Grokipedia
Gregory Thomas Waddle (born February 20, 1967) is a former who played professionally in the (NFL) for six seasons with the from 1989 to 1994, before signing with the in 1995 and retiring shortly thereafter without playing. Born in , , Waddle attended , where he played , earning the Nils V. "Swede" Nelson Award in 1988, before entering the NFL as an undrafted . Waddle signed with the Bears in 1989 and initially joined their before being promoted to the active roster after cuts. He appeared in 60 games over his career, starting 41, and recorded 173 receptions for 2,109 yards and nine , serving as the Bears' leading receiver from to 1993. Notable highlights include a 37-yard catch in a win against the Minnesota Vikings, which marked his breakthrough as a starter, and a standout playoff performance in the NFC Wild Card round against the , where he caught nine passes for 104 yards and a despite sustaining multiple injuries. His career was cut short by injuries, leading to his retirement at age 28 after the 1995 season. Following his playing days, Waddle transitioned into sports broadcasting, beginning with radio work in 1993 on WGN-AM alongside Dave Eanet and later partnering with David Kaplan for a decade. He has served as an NFL analyst for ESPN, contributing to programs like SportsCenter and The Sports Reporters, and worked as an analyst and anchor for FOX 32, WLS ABC 7, and NFL Network. Since 2007, Waddle has co-hosted the popular "Waddle & Silvy" afternoon drive show on ESPN 1000 (WMVP-AM) in Chicago with Marc Silverman, entering its 19th season as of 2025 and consistently ranking among the top-rated sports radio programs in the market.

Early life

Birth and family background

Gregory Thomas Waddle was born on February 20, 1967, in , . Waddle grew up in , a city with a strong sports culture that likely contributed to his early exposure to athletics. Waddle attended Archbishop Moeller High School in , where he began his formal athletic development.

High school career

Tom Waddle attended Archbishop Moeller High School in , , where he emerged as a standout on the football team during his high school years. As a senior in 1984, Waddle earned first-team All- honors in Class AA as an end, recognized for his contributions to the team's offensive efforts. Measuring 6-foot-1 and 175 pounds, he showcased exceptional speed that drew attention from college recruiters. Under head coach Steve Klonne, the Archbishop Moeller Crusaders compiled a 10-0 regular season record in 1984, advancing to the OHSAA Division I playoffs and reaching the regional finals, where they suffered a 7-10 loss to Centerville. Waddle played a key role in their postseason run alongside teammates, including future quarterback Mark Kamphaus, highlighting his reliability as a receiver in a program known for its competitive success. Waddle's high school exploits, particularly his quickness—clocked at a 4.65-second —made him a prime recruiting target, leading to a offer from . He committed to the Eagles, continuing his partnership with Kamphaus from their days at Moeller. In recognition of his athletic impact, Waddle was inducted into the Archbishop Moeller Hall of Fame in 1994 for his football and basketball achievements. His roots provided strong family support throughout his development as a prospect.

College career

Boston College

Tom Waddle enrolled at in 1985 and played wide receiver for the Eagles football team from 1985 to 1988, progressing from a reserve role early in his career to a key starter by his junior and senior years. During his four seasons, Waddle established himself as one of the program's most productive pass-catchers, contributing to the team's independent conference schedule in an era before joined the Big East. His development highlighted his speed and reliable hands, making him a consistent threat in the Eagles' offense. Over his collegiate career, Waddle recorded 139 receptions for 1,965 yards and 6 touchdowns, rankings that placed him third in school history for career receptions at the time of his graduation. In his senior year of 1988, he achieved career highs with 70 receptions for 902 yards and 5 touchdowns, a single-season mark that at the time ranked fourth all-time at for receptions and fifth for games with 100 or more receiving yards. He also set a school record with 13 receptions in a single game against TCU that season, a mark that underscored his ability to dominate matchups. Waddle's standout performances earned him first-team All-ECAC honors as a in 1988, recognizing his leadership in the conference with the top reception total among independents. He was named MVP of the Boston College-Syracuse game that year after a pivotal contribution to the victory, and his senior-season excellence led to an invitation to play in the Japan Bowl, an featuring top collegiate seniors. These achievements not only boosted the Eagles' passing attack but also solidified Waddle's legacy, as his career totals and records helped elevate the program's receiving standards during a transitional period.

NFL career

Chicago Bears

Tom Waddle joined the as an undrafted in 1989 after going unselected in the NFL Draft following a productive college career at . Initially struggling to secure playing time, he appeared in limited roles during his first two seasons, recording just three receptions for 40 yards combined. However, Waddle broke out in 1991 under head coach , becoming a key contributor in the Bears' offense during a transitional period after their dominant 1985 victory, as the team rebuilt amid declining performance and roster changes. Over his six seasons with the Bears from 1989 to 1994, Waddle amassed 173 receptions for 2,109 yards and nine , serving as a reliable possession receiver known for his precise route-running and sure hands. He led the team in receiving in with 55 catches for 599 yards and three , in with 46 receptions for 674 yards and four scores, and in with 44 catches for 552 yards and one . These totals underscored his emergence as the Bears' primary wideout during an era of quarterback instability, including stints with and , as the franchise sought to recapture its earlier success. One of Waddle's most memorable performances came in the 1991 NFC Wild Card playoff loss to the , where he recorded nine receptions for a career-high 104 yards and a despite enduring multiple hard hits that forced him to leave the field for treatment . His resilience in returning to the game after those blows exemplified the toughness that defined his play, earning him selection to John Madden's All-Madden Team for grit and passion rather than raw statistics. This mentality, combined with his consistent effort amid the Bears' post-Super Bowl challenges, solidified Waddle's status as a fan favorite in , where he played his entire productive tenure.

Cincinnati Bengals

After being released by the Chicago Bears following the 1994 season due to persistent injuries that limited his play, Tom Waddle signed a one-year contract as an unrestricted with the on April 3, 1995. This move came after a Bears tenure where he had established himself as a reliable possession receiver, amassing 173 career receptions for 2,109 yards and nine touchdowns over six seasons. Waddle, a Cincinnati native who had starred at Archbishop Moeller High School in the city before attending , viewed the signing as an opportunity to return home and extend his NFL career under Bengals head coach David Shula. The Bengals sought to bolster their receiving corps with Waddle's experience, despite his lack of elite speed, praising his route-running precision and toughness. However, Waddle did not appear in any regular-season games for the team, as recurring physical wear from his injury-plagued years prevented him from making the active roster. On May 12, 1995, just over a month after signing, Waddle announced his at age 28, citing the cumulative toll of injuries that had shortened his final two seasons with the Bears and ultimately ended his professional playing career in his hometown. This brief Bengals stint provided a poignant closure, allowing Waddle to bow out near his roots after a career marked by resilience amid adversity.

Awards and honors

Collegiate achievements

During his tenure at , Tom Waddle was selected as an All-ECAC , recognizing his standout performance on the field. In 1988, he earned MVP honors in the Boston College-Syracuse game, highlighting his pivotal contributions to the team's success. In 1988, Waddle received the Nils V. "Swede" Nelson Award for his contributions to New England college football. That achievement led to an invitation to participate in the Japan Bowl, an all-star postseason game featuring top collegiate talent from the . Waddle's overall collegiate statistics—139 receptions for 1,956 yards and six touchdowns—provided the foundation for these accolades, placing him third on Boston College's all-time career receptions list at the time. In 1998, he was inducted into the Boston College Varsity Club Hall of Fame for his enduring impact on the program.

Professional and broadcasting recognitions

During his NFL tenure with the , Tom Waddle received national recognition for his resilient performance in the 1991 NFC Divisional playoff game against the , where he recorded nine receptions for 104 yards and a despite being knocked unconscious three times by hard hits that briefly sidelined him. This effort earned him a selection to the All-Madden Team, honoring his toughness and contributions as an undrafted player who became a key receiver. In 1993, Waddle was awarded the Award by the Bears, which recognizes players for their , sportsmanship, and dedication, particularly notable given his recovery from a challenging injury-plagued season. Waddle's overall professional impact with the Bears, where he amassed 173 receptions for 2,109 yards and nine touchdowns over six seasons, has cemented his legacy as a fan favorite and reliable slot receiver in franchise history. His career achievements, spanning both playing and media contributions, led to his induction into the Chicagoland Sports Hall of Fame in , acknowledging his role as a Bears standout and sports personality. In broadcasting, Waddle has built a distinguished career spanning over 30 years in Chicago sports media since transitioning full-time after retiring from the NFL in 1995, beginning with radio appearances while still active and evolving into a prominent analyst role. His long-running co-hosting of "Waddle & Silvy" on ESPN 1000, which marked its 10th anniversary in 2017 and continues as a staple afternoon (now midday) program, highlights his enduring influence in local sports talk. As of January 2025, Waddle was ranked 12th in the Chicago Sun-Times' annual sports-media power rankings, reflecting his sustained prominence across radio, television analysis on Marquee Sports Network, and Bears pregame coverage.

Broadcasting career

Radio

Waddle began his radio broadcasting career in 1993 while still playing for the , hosting a weekly show on WGN-AM 720 alongside Dave Eanet. Following his retirement from the in 1995, he transitioned to full-time broadcasting in 1997 as co-host of the weeknight Sports Central program on WGN-AM 720 alongside David Kaplan, a partnership that lasted a . In spring 2007, Waddle joined ESPN 1000 (WMVP-AM) as co-host of the newly launched Waddle & Silvy show with Marc "Silvy" Silverman, initially airing weekday mornings from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. CT. The program quickly became a staple for Chicago sports talk, featuring in-depth analysis of local teams like the Bears and Cubs, regular guest interviews with players, coaches, and executives, and interactive segments engaging fans through calls and social media. Over the years, the show's time slot evolved to better suit afternoon drive audiences, shifting to 2-6 p.m. in 2013, extending to 3-7 p.m. by 2017, and adjusting to 3-6:30 p.m. as of August 2025 under Good Karma Brands' management of the station. The enduring partnership between Waddle and Silverman, marking over 18 years together by 2025, has built a loyal listenership through their chemistry, humor, and balanced perspectives—Waddle drawing on his playing experience and Silverman on his reporting background—making Waddle & Silvy the longest-running sports talk duo in Chicago radio history. The show has covered pivotal moments across Chicago sports, from Bears aspirations to Cubs triumphs, solidifying its role as a daily touchstone for fans seeking informed discussion and entertainment.

Television

Following his retirement from the NFL in 1995, Tom Waddle transitioned into television broadcasting as the host of weekend football-oriented programs on 32 in , where he focused on Bears-related content and general discussions. This role marked his entry into local sports media, leveraging his experience as a former Bears to provide engaging breakdowns of games and team strategies. Waddle progressed to serving as an analyst and occasional fill-in anchor for FOX 32, handling pre-game and post-game coverage for matchups, which allowed him to offer detailed insights into offensive plays and receiver routes based on his professional background. He later expanded his contributions to WLS ABC 7 in , appearing as a sports analyst in studio segments that complemented broadcasts and broader analysis. In 2007, Waddle joined the as a gameday analyst, providing expert commentary on national telecasts and emphasizing tactical elements from a player's viewpoint. By 2025, Waddle remained active in Bears-focused television, co-hosting the weekly "Bear Essentials" program on alongside Elise Menaker, where he delivers pre-game keys, post-game recaps, and sideline perspectives during home games at . His style is characterized by passionate, firsthand player insights that resonate with Chicago fans, often highlighting the physical and mental demands of competition. This work frequently cross-promotes his radio appearances for integrated Bears coverage across platforms.

Other media

In addition to his primary radio and television roles, Tom Waddle has expanded his sports commentary through the Waddle & Silvy , which serves as a digital extension of his 1000 show with Marc "Silvy" Silverman. Launched in 2019, the features in-depth discussions on sports, including Bears analysis, player interviews, and fan Q&A sessions, and is distributed on platforms such as , , and , where episodes often exceed the radio format's time constraints for more nuanced breakdowns. Waddle has made notable guest appearances on national programs, providing expert insights on NFL topics. He contributed as an analyst on ESPN's Golic and Wingo, discussing Bears strategies and league-wide trends, and appeared on Don't @ Me with to debate performances and team dynamics. Other spots include Uncut with , where he reflected on his playing career alongside the former Bears , and NFL Network's for film breakdowns. Beyond audio and video broadcasts, Waddle contributes to digital sports content through , producing analytical segments like "Bear Essentials" and "Cover 3 Breakdowns" that dissect Bears game plans using all-22 film. These online-exclusive videos, updated weekly during the season, focus on offensive schemes and defensive matchups, such as strategies against Cover 3 defenses. Waddle maintains an active social media presence for fan engagement, with over 11,000 followers (@tomieboy87) where he shares behind-the-scenes clips from his shows and Bears commentary, and a account (@TWaddle87) used for real-time reactions to games and polls on team topics as of 2025. The Waddle & Silvy accounts on these platforms amplify episodes and interact with Chicago sports enthusiasts, fostering community discussions.

Personal life

Marriage and family

Tom Waddle married Cara Cappelletti on June 8, 1991. Cara's father, , was a prominent for the Patriots and is enshrined in the Hall of Fame. The couple has four daughters, and their family life is deeply intertwined with sports, reflecting Cappelletti's legacy. Waddle has often highlighted his family's role in supporting him through his NFL tenure with the and subsequent broadcasting endeavors, frequently sharing personal anecdotes about them during his radio and television appearances. Following his retirement from professional football in 1995, Waddle has successfully balanced his demanding media schedule in the Chicago area with active involvement in his daughters' lives, embracing the role of a dedicated "soccer dad" by attending their games and cheering from the sidelines.

Residence

Tom Waddle relocated to the area in 1989 after signing with the as an undrafted , marking the beginning of his professional football and long-term ties to the region. Following his retirement from the in 1995, he remained in the suburbs to launch a with local outlets, including the affiliate . In 2015, Waddle and his wife, Cara, purchased a five-bedroom mansion in , for $2.15 million. The 2002-built property, spanning three stories with brick and limestone construction, served as their primary residence for eight years until it was listed for sale in March 2023 at $3.25 million and ultimately sold in May 2023 for $3.1 million. Later that year, on November 1, 2023, the Waddles acquired a renovated 6,818-square-foot mansion in Long Grove, Illinois, for $1.5 million. The 2006-built home on 0.83 acres includes five bedrooms, five-and-a-half bathrooms, a custom kitchen with high-end appliances, a great room with a stone fireplace, a primary suite with heated floors, and a finished basement featuring a theater, wine cellar, exercise room, and bar. This suburban property offers a spacious family environment for Waddle, his wife, and their four daughters, while its location—approximately 35 miles northwest of downtown Chicago—supports his daily WMVP-AM radio commitments.

References

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