What's Happening?
The Minnesota Gophers have successfully acquired veteran tight end Kaden Helms from the University of Oklahoma through the transfer portal. Helms, who stands at 6'5" and weighs 238 pounds, was a highly sought-after recruit from Nebraska in 2022, initially choosing Oklahoma over several top-tier programs including LSU, Tennessee, and Michigan. Despite his promising start, Helms' college career has been marred by limited playing time and injuries. He played only three games as a freshman before redshirting and missed the entire 2023 season due to injury. Over the past two seasons, he participated in a total of 272 offensive snaps. Helms has recorded 8 receptions for 58 yards and 2 touchdowns in his career. With Minnesota losing its top two tight ends
to graduation, Helms is expected to play a significant role in the upcoming season.
Why It's Important?
The addition of Kaden Helms is a strategic move for the Minnesota Gophers as they look to fill the void left by departing tight ends Jameson Geers and Drew Biber. Helms' size and athleticism make him a valuable asset, potentially enhancing the team's offensive capabilities. His experience, despite limited playtime, could provide leadership and depth to the tight end position. This move also highlights the increasing importance of the transfer portal in college sports, allowing teams to quickly address roster needs and for players to find new opportunities to showcase their talents. For Helms, this transfer represents a chance to revitalize his college career and make a significant impact in his final year of eligibility.
What's Next?
Kaden Helms will join the Gophers' roster and begin preparations for the upcoming season under the guidance of position coach Eric Koehler. With the departure of key players, Helms will compete for a starting position alongside other tight ends such as Pierce Walsh and Roman Voss. The Gophers will likely focus on integrating Helms into their offensive schemes to maximize his potential contributions. As the team gears up for the new season, Helms' performance in training and early games will be crucial in determining his role and impact on the team's success.
