All LaCale London needed was a chance.

First, that was at Iowa Central following a standout prep career in Illinois. 

London turned that into a two-year career with Western Illinois that included Missouri Valley Conference all-newcomer and all-league honors. 

Following the conclusion of the recent 2020 NFL Draft, London received another opportunity, as the Chicago Bears offered him an undrafted free agent contract. The former Triton was contacted by defensive line coach Jay Rodgers of the Bears. 

"The feeling was unreal and something I never felt before," London said. "I was just smiling when he called me. It was definitely the best feeling I ever had."

London, a 6-foot-5, 280-pound defensive lineman, played for Iowa Central during the 2016 season. He recorded 32 tackles and six sacks in six games. 

"My time at Iowa Central got me ready to know what to expect at WIU," he said. "I learned a lot during my time at Iowa Central. Great coaches and I feel like if I didn't go there, I wouldn't be where I am today.

"I love the path I took to get to where I'm at today."

In 2018, London was named to the MVFC all-newcomer team for the Leathernecks after recording 23 tackles and 3.5 sacks in 11 games. He started all 12 games this past season with 45 tackles, four sacks, 9.5 tackles for loss and three forced fumbles to earn honorable mention all-league status.

"It's worth everything I went through, especially all the early workouts when your asking yourself some mornings is this worth it," he said. "But definitely worth everything I been through. It's a blessing earning the opportunity to play at the next level and the work is not over yet."

While he waits to join the Bears and compete, London will continue working out at a private gym, adding "I'm still going hard and staying safe."