Summary

Gunnar Helm was selected in the 4th Round (#120 Overall) of the 2025 Draft out of University of Texas. Helm enters the NFL as a well‑sized, multi‑faceted tight end with a blend of receiving chops and blocking ability. He isn’t projected as a “wow” athlete compared to some elite tight ends, but his strengths lie in dependable hands, a good catch radius, and a willingness (and competence) in the blocking game. As a rookie, he’ll likely contribute in multiple tight end sets, especially in a role that requires blocking and shorter/intermediate receiving. With time and refinement he has the potential to become a solid starter rather than merely a specialist.

Strengths

• Size & catch radius: At 6′5″ with good length, Helm can line up well across different alignments and is a difficult target for defenders at the catch point. His size aids contested catches and red‑zone work.

• Reliable hands / ball‑tracking: He has demonstrated the ability to locate the ball and adjust to catch it, even when the throw isn’t perfect. That shows in college stats and scouting commentary.

• Blocking ability: Unlike many tight ends who are purely pass‑catchers, Helm has been noted for his willingness to block and good technique in the run‑game. That adds value in three‑down roles.

• Breakout 2024 season: After limited production earlier, his senior year showed a major jump: 60 receptions for 786 yards and 7 touchdowns in his final college season. NFL Clubs

• Football IQ / understanding of role: Several sources note his steady progression, willingness to learn and adapt, and understanding of both blocking and receiving assignments.

Weaknesses

• Athleticism / burst limitations: While adequate, Helm does not have top‑tier explosiveness relative to the most dynamic tight end prospects. That limits his ability to separate on deeper or more complicated routes.

• Route‑running refinement: Although improved in his senior year, his shorter‑area route tree (e.g., quick outs, sharp cuts) and separation vs. athletic defenders may still need polish for NFL speed and complexity.

• Yards After Catch (YAC) ceiling: Given his athletic limitations, while he can make an initial catch, his ability to turn it into large chunks after the catch may not match the elite receiving TEs who can create separation or break multiple tackles.

• Late emergence / limited sustained college production: Prior to 2024 his receiving numbers were modest, meaning he has less “track record” as a full‑featured big‑volume receiver compared to some peers. ESPN.com

• Potential red‑zone / vertical mismatch concerns: Some evaluators note that he may not be the mismatch weapon deep in the way some tight ends are—his size helps, but his speed and separation ability may be less elite.

Fit & Outlook

Helm fits best in an offense that values versatility from the tight end position — someone who can block in the run game, contribute in the short to intermediate passing game, and act as a reliable safety‑valve in third‑down situations. In the short term, the Tennessee Titans can deploy him in two‑tight‑end sets, use him in the red zone, and have him contribute on early downs where his blocking adds value. For long‑term growth, his path involves improving his release and route‑running speed to create more separation and enhancing his YAC ability so that initial catches turn into bigger plays.