During the first round of the college football playoffs, the Texas Longhorns continued to show why they are one of the best teams in the country. While everyone on the roster contributed, Gunnar Helm was one player who stood out. The star tight end continued to be a central part of the passing game, earning national praise.
Against Clemson, Helm led the Longhorns in receptions with six and receiving yards with 77. He was the only player with more than two catches and he frustrated the Tigers’ defense all afternoon. Due to his play, Helm earned an 85.4 rating from PFF College, which was the highest among tight ends in the first round.
As the Longhorns prepare to take on Arizona State, Helm’s latest acknowledgment is a continuation of what he has done this year. During the 2024 campaign he has been a human highlight reel, setting career-highs in receptions, receiving yards, and touchdowns.
It was a big day for Texas Longhorns tight end Gunnar Helm vs. Clemson. Helm projects as a top 100 selection in the 2025 NFL Draft. #NFLDraft #NFLDraft2025 #2025NFLDraft pic.twitter.com/Q6LtPDy56k
— Sam Teets (@Sam_Teets33) December 22, 2024
When the Longhorns take on Arizona State on Wednesday, Helm will be a player the Sun Devils focus on. They will be looking to take away Quinn Ewers’s playmakers, a list Helm is at the top of. That shows how important the Colorado native has become.
If Helm can build on his last week’s success, another high rating could be on the horizon. When he is at his best, the Longhorns’ offense is hard to stop, and so far during the playoffs, he has done his part to help the Longhorns get closer to a national title.