In his sophomore season, the wide receiver from Nashville, Tennessee, emerged as one of the top wide receivers in the country after filling in for an injured Elijah Sarratt against Penn State. Charlie Becker now looks to continue growing his game as the wide receiver room opens up for him. Becker is expected to be Indiana’s top wide receiver this year, alongside Michigan State transfer Nick Marsh.
Becker is very grateful for his opportunity to have a breakout season in 2025. In media availability on Thursday morning, Becker was asked about how he handled being thrust into the spotlight last season.
“I think Coach Shanahan and Coach Cig do a fantastic job of preparing everybody in the receiving room… they make sure everybody knows what to do at every single position so that when their number gets called… I was just fortunate enough that they called my number.”
Becker praises Offensive Coordinator Mike Shanahan and Head Coach Curt Cignetti for preparing the entire team. He also thanks them for providing him the opportunity to shine on a big stage during the Hoosier national title campaign.
A lot of Becker’s success last season was bolstered by his connection with his roommate, former Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza. Mendoza has declared for the NFL draft, and so now Coach Cignetti hands his keys to the transfer quarterback from TCU, Josh Hoover. Becker was asked about how Hoover and he have gotten along.
“As soon as last season was over, me and Josh were texting… he was like, as soon as you guys get back, let’s get right to it, and after every workout we’ve been throwing, trying to build that connection that me and Fernando had.”
Becker understands that much of his success hinges on building a connection with his quarterback, and he is grateful to have a quarterback who wants to establish that connection with him. Becker understands that he needs to work on building a connection that is similar to the one he had with Mendoza.
Becker is grateful for the playing time he received last year, as he emerged on the scene as a rising star of the game. He was asked about who he had seen as the next Charlie Becker, thus far into Spring practice.
“During Spring ball, Davion Chandler has stepped up huge, and I know Lebron Bond has also made a crazy impact. Those are some young guys who are building a lot of trust in our coach… I’m expecting them to be able to take a big step and make big plays for us.”
Becker is humble about his upbringing and excited to show the world that he still has more to give in his Junior season. He puts his trust in the idea that if he does the work, the results will follow him. Becker expects to build on last season.
Becker May Be Out the Rest of Spring Practice
Becker has been limited in practice according to Cignetti, and the Hoosiers’ head coach even said Becker may be finished for the spring.
“he tweaked his hammy,” Cignetti said. “He did the same thing in August. So, I don’t know if he’ll be back or not the rest of the spring. We miss him being out there right now.”