In the NFL Draft just a few months ago, the Tennessee Titans made Gunnar Helm’s dream come true when they picked him in the fourth round. The Titans envisioned Helm being a weapon in the passing game like he was at Texas. After a quiet preseason opener, he flashed his potential on Saturday afternoon against the Atlanta Falcons.
Against the Falcons’ secondary, the former Longhorn led the Titans in receptions with four and receiving yards with 48. He also found the end zone once and averaged 12 yards a catch. For many in Tennessee, it was a welcome sign after Helm recorded just one catch last week against the Buccaneers.
As Helm got more settled in looked like the tight end who was a popular target for Arch Manning and Quinn Ewers. In his last season as a Longhorn, Helm set career highs in receptions with 60, receiving yards with 786, and games played with 16. He was also a popular target in the red zone, adding seven touchdowns to his resume.
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Due to his play, Helm was a popular prospect leading up to the draft. When the Titans got the chance, they added him to a tight end room that includes a few veteran pieces. At the moment, Chig Okonkwo is listed as the starter. However, he only has one year left on his rookie deal, which could open more playing time for Helm if he can replicate his success from the 2024 campaign.
With the regular season quickly approaching, it will be interesting to see how Helm is used. He has the potential to be a threat in the passing game and is making the most of his opportunities. However, he will have to battle with a highly motivated Okonkwo who is looking to prove he deserves a long-term deal.
Regardless of who the depth chart shakes out, Helm showed on Saturday just how much of an impact he can make with the ball in his hands.
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This article originally appeared on Longhorns Wire: Former Longhorns TE Gunnar Helm impresses in second NFL preseason game