Randle El was selected 62nd overall by the Pittsburgh Steelers in the second round of the 2002 NFL Draft as a wide receiver. In the 2002 NFL Draft, he was the ninth wide receiver chosen. Throughout the 2004 season, he was the Steelers' leading kickoff returner and punt returner. At the end of that season, he was released by the team. After leaving the Steelers, Randle El signed with the Denver Broncos on May 13, 2005. He was cut by the Broncos on June 15, but later re-signed. He played in four games for the Broncos, returning six kickoffs for 105 yards and one punt for 17 yards. He also had three catches for 24 yards. On July 30, 2005, Randle El signed with the Chicago Bears. He appeared in two games for the Bears, returning five kicks for 110 yards and one punt for 10 yards. On November 26, 2005, Randle El was added to the roster of the San Francisco 49ers. He played in three games for the 49ers, returning seven kicks for 147 yards and one punt for 20 yards. He also caught three passes for 24 yards. On December 31, 2005, Randle El was claimed off waivers by the New York Jets. He appeared in two games for the Jets, returning five kicks for 111 yards and one punt for 33 yards.