Chasing a dream: Senior linebacker trains for NFL tryout

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Senior linebacker Tommy Becker is preparing to try out for the National Football League.

Becker has trained for five weeks at Englebert Training Systems Gym in Woodbury, Minn., in preparation for a pro day March 9 at Concordia University in St. Paul with other D-III athletes.

Becker said he has dreamed of “playing in the big leagues” since he was little. Now, he has his chance.

“I just want to play. I want a Super Bowl ring,” Becker said. “That’s why I train, that’s why I work so hard.”

Becker hopes to become a linebacker, a long snapper or a special teams player. He also wants to help the community if he makes the NFL.

“I want to help out kids in need, mothers in need,” he said. “I want to open up foundations and help everybody.”

St. Thomas football coach Glenn Caruso has supported Becker throughout the process. Caruso sent film to scouts and helped set up the pro day.

“He can bring a lot to just about any team he’s on,” Caruso said. “Certainly he’s got a long road ahead of him, as anybody would if they want to aspire at that level, but I know his heart, his passion and his drive and passion for this sport is second to none.”

ETS gym owner and former NFL player Ryan Englebert is training Becker.

The intensive workouts will help improve Becker’s strength, quickness and agility.

“The improvements he’s already made in five weeks have been amazing,” Englebert said. “He’s going to continue to make those gains as we progress the program a little further, making sure he’s at that peak when it comes time for test day.”

Michael Ewen can be reached at mtewen@stthomas.edu.