Indianapolis Colts

Colts' Werner wants to grow the game abroad

Published Jul. 13, 2015 2:52 p.m. ET

foxsports

As one of five German-born players in the NFL, Indianapolis Colts linebacker Bjoern Werner's goal is to not only become successful player in the league, but also serve as catalyst for growing the game in his native country.

Werner, the Colts' first-round pick in 2013, played high school football in Connecticut, after discovering the sport in Germany. In an interview with the Monday Morning Quarterback's Jenny Vrentas, the 24-year-old Werner said one of his ambitions is to help create more opportunities for German players to come to the U.S.

"That’s one of my goals later, to build up something like that, like a pipeline, where I can find talent and bring it to high schools and colleges," Werner said. "That would be my dream, and I would really be passionate about it, because I lived it. I know how hard it is, the opportunities that would have to be there. People guiding you through the right way. I was very fortunate to have that people like that, and opportunities. So I will try to create that pretty soon."

With the NFL floating the idea of expanding the International Series of games beyond London, Werner said he hopes to see the day when a regular-season game is played in his home country.

"It would be awesome. I would love that, " Werner said. "I hope I would play in it, too. The whole NFL Europe was basically in Germany, so I don’t understand why that’s not the first option, because they have the most fans over there. I wish [I could talk to the NFL about Germany], but I don’t have the big name yet. Maybe I can change that in a few years."

Werner, who is entering his third season with the Colts, said he hopes his story serves as inspiration for young players back home.

"I want kids back in Germany to see it’s possible," Werner said. "I made it. Some other guys made it. You can do it. Why not? Why not you? That’s the message I want to get to them, and tell them, ‘Hey, no dream is too big.’"

(h/t MMQB)

Photo credit: Thomas J. Russo-USA TODAY Sports