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Bellevue Today
By the People, for the People
Oklahoma Transfer Kaden Helms Aims to Breakout in Minnesota's Tight End Room
The Gophers have a big opportunity at tight end with several departures, and Helms hopes to seize it.
Published on Feb. 14, 2026
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Minnesota's tight end room will have a new look in 2026 after the departure of several key players. One player looking to take advantage of the opportunity is Oklahoma transfer Kaden Helms, a former four-star recruit who is hoping to find more consistent playing time and production with the Gophers.
Why it matters
Minnesota's tight end position has been a productive part of their offense in recent seasons, so replacing that production will be crucial. Helms, who was a highly touted recruit, has the potential to step in and become a key contributor, but he'll need to show he can translate his talent into on-field results.
The details
Helms, a native of Bellevue, Nebraska, was a consensus four-star recruit in the class of 2022 before signing with Oklahoma. He saw limited action as a true freshman and redshirted, then missed the 2023 season due to a knee injury. In 2024 and 2025, he played a total of 289 snaps for the Sooners, catching 8 passes for 58 yards and 2 touchdowns. Now with one season of eligibility remaining, Helms is looking to make an impact at Minnesota, where the Gophers have a big void to fill at tight end after losing Jameson Geers, Drew Biber and Frank Bierman.
- Helms was a four-star recruit in the class of 2022.
- He redshirted in 2022 and missed the 2023 season due to injury.
- In 2024 and 2025, Helms played a total of 289 snaps for Oklahoma.
- Helms will have one season of eligibility remaining at Minnesota in 2026.
The players
Kaden Helms
A former four-star tight end recruit from Bellevue, Nebraska, who is transferring to Minnesota after playing for Oklahoma.
Jameson Geers
A tight end who is departing Minnesota after the 2025 season.
Drew Biber
A tight end who is departing Minnesota after the 2025 season.
Frank Bierman
A tight end who is departing Minnesota after the 2025 season.
Pierce Walsh
Minnesota's top returning tight end, who played 238 snaps last season.
What’s next
Helms will look to earn a starting role and become a consistent contributor in Minnesota's offense during the 2026 season.
The takeaway
Minnesota has a significant opportunity at tight end with several key departures, and Kaden Helms, a former highly-touted recruit, will look to seize that chance and establish himself as a playmaker for the Gophers in 2026.
