NFL Draft: New Haven’s Mike Flacco, Mike DeCaro hope to get the call

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After University of New Haven running back Mike DeCaro finished his pro day at Yale in preparation for the NFL Draft, he took time to cherish the moment.

“It was a dream come true,” DeCaro said. “But there’s still a dream to chase.”

Fellow Charger, tight end Mike Flacco, has been chasing the dream, too. Flacco, brother of Baltimore Ravens quarterback Joe Flacco, saw his old dream of playing Major League Baseball end without getting the call. Just south of 30 years old, it’s now or never for the tight end.

“I’m 27. If it’s going to happen, I have to make it happen this year,” Flacco said.

Both will be close to their phones this weekend.

Flacco had his pro day in March and 16 teams showed up. The Ravens were not one of them according to Linta, who the agent for both Flaccos. Linta said the San Diego Chargers, Minnesota Vikings and New York Jets have expressed interest.

“He’s got a chance to be drafted.” Linta said. “If not, we expect him to be signed.”

New Haven tight end Michael Flacco’s helmet flies off after catching a touchdown pass during the Chargers’ Oct. 19, 2013, game against Stonehill. New Haven tight end Michael Flacco’s helmet flies off after catching a touchdown pass during the Chargers’ Oct. 19, 2013, game against Stonehill. Photo: Mara Lavitt — Register File Photo Photo: Mara Lavitt — Register File Photo Image 1 of / 3 Caption Close NFL Draft: New Haven’s Mike Flacco, Mike DeCaro hope to get the call 1 / 3 Back to Gallery

Flacco played one season at UNH after four years of minor league baseball. He said when he realized the big leagues weren’t in his future, he was at a crossroads.

“It was kind of like, where do I go from here?” he said.

However, at 6 feet 5 and 250 pounds, it made sense to go to the gridiron. Last season Flacco had 30 receptions for 591 yards and nine touchdowns in 11 games.

Size may help Flacco get noticed, but it could work against the 5-9 DeCaro. However, he said it should not be an issue.

“If they give me a chance I can make a good impression,” DeCaro said. “Maybe they’ll see some things they haven’t seen before.”

DeCaro posted team highs of 937 rushing yards and 10 rushing touchdowns while adding 27 receptions for 407 yards last season. He also helped lead the Chargers to three straight Northeast-10 titles and two NCAA Division II tournament appearances.

The Jets and New England Patriots were at his pro day and his agent, Doug Lilly, said DeCaro is the total package. He said DeCaro will most likely be a return man or receiver in the NFL.

“I think his numbers are going to speak for themselves,” Lilly said.

Lilly said DeCaro will most likely be an undrafted free agent, and the Denver Broncos have showed the most interest. DeCaro also worked out for the Houston Texans.

At his pro day, DeCaro felt he showed that he belongs in the NFL. Flacco felt the same way. Both players now play the waiting game.

“I’ve got my nerves on edge,” DeCaro said. “I can’t wait.”