With star middle linebacker Alex Singleton taking a seat for the Stamps’ first pre-season game, rookie Todd Thomas will get the start in his place.

The 26-year-old Beaver Falls, Penn., native is ready to get on the field and show what he can do.

“I’m looking to showcase my skills [Tuesday],” Thomas said of the pre-season affair against the BC Lions. “Right now, I need to get in my book a bit and I’ve just got to put it all out on the field.”

“I’ve just got to work hard. I need to do what I’ve been coached to do all camp,” Thomas said. “So come out and play hard and build my resume.”

Already on his resume, the 6-foot-1, 233 lb. backer played four seasons at the University of Pittsburgh, where he recorded 251 tackles, three sacks and three interceptions.

Thomas caught the eye of the coaching staff at the Florida mini-camp back in April.

After an injury during the off-season, Thomas wasn’t sure if he would get an offer to come north to try-out for the Stamps. Fortunately for him, the team offered him a contract and signed him on May 15.

“I’m blessed that the coaches gave me an opportunity to let me come and showcase my talent,” said Thomas.

Through two-a-days, film study and everything in between, Thomas has passed each and every test thrown his way.

Up next for the talented linebacker is the biggest test of all — playing a CFL game.

“I’m definitely excited,” Thomas said. “At (the Florida free-agent camp) I was excited then, coming up here, I was excited. Now, actually playing in a game, the first time in the CFL, in this beautiful atmosphere, it’s a blessing and I’m ready.”

As if moving to Canada, learning a new system and a new playbook weren’t hard enough, Thomas has noticed all of the extra space that skill players have from sideline to sideline.

Luckily for him, he is a great athlete and if he does his job within the defence, he’ll be able to adjust quickly to the larger field.

“It’s a big difference,” acknowledged Thomas. “Especially when you’re guarding speed guys, they’ve got a lot to work with out there. I’ve got to be on my keys and be ready to play.”

Come Tuesday night, Thomas is excited to trot out on the field in front of the loyal, loud fan base in Calgary for the first time.

He’s heard good things about the local crowd and he’s hoping to help put on a good show.

“I’m ready for the fans to come out and support and we’ll do our end of the job,” said Thomas.