After signing with the New Orleans Saints on Jan. 22, NIU graduate Chris Finlen found out on Tuesday that he will play in NFL-Europe this year rather than going to the Saints’ training camp.

“I was worried going to mini camp as just another quarterback,” Finlen said. “I think I can grow more in Europe. I haven’t played in a year, and I’m glad to have the experience of the live action.”

Finlen, NIU’s all-time leading passer, spent last year, his first after graduating, as a Player Personal Intern with the Chicago Bears.

The 6-foot-3, 205 pound QB expects to be picked up by either the Rhein Fire or the Barcelona Dragons, two pass-oriented teams.

He expects to find out exactly what team he’ll be with by the middle of next week, and said he would leave to join the team on the first week of March.

The NFL-Europe season lasts from the middle of April to the middle of June.

“I’m excited to have a set schedule and get in the rhythm of things,” Finlen said.