One of many former Longhorns to hear their name called in the NFL Draft this year was tight end Gunnar Helm. The Colorado native was selected by the Tennessee Titans in the fourth round and expected to become a key piece of the offense. So far, he has had an up-and-down start through the Titans’ first month of the season.
In four games, the talented 23-year-old has hauled in seven receptions for 64 yards. While serving as the Titans’ second tight end, Helm has averaged 9.1 yards per catch and been targeted eight times. Although Helm was hoping to get off to a better start, he currently ranks fourth on the team in receptions and receiving yards.
With the season far from over, Helm has plenty of time to become a bigger part of the offense. During his time as a Longhorn, Helm was a fixture in the offense and improved every season. That is partly why he was a popular target leading up to draft day.
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During his time in Austin, the Cherry Creek Grad hauled in 79 passes for 1,022 yards. He also found the end zone nine times and averaged a career high 49.1 yards per game in his final collegiate season. If he can replicate those numbers in the pro level, the Titans will be in good hands.
Helm is hoping that it starts on Sunday when Tennessee goes on the road to face the Arizona Cardinals. In every game this season, Helm has had at least one catch with Cam Ward under center. Like Hem, he is also adjusting to the pro level while being looked at as the future of the franchise. A good sign for the former Longhorns star is that Ward has found a way to get Helm the football every game. As they both get more comfortable, Helm should see his numbers improve and his role in the offense grow.
This article originally appeared on Longhorns Wire: Gunnar Helm NFL start