Bellevue West always seems to have a number of playmakers on its roster. That helps to power Coach Mike Huffman’s high-powered offense. The team is set up well for the next couple of seasons to keep that rolling thanks in part to 2022 tight end prospect Kaden Helms.
The hybrid tight end stands at 6-foot-5 and 215 pounds. He made the most of his time during quarantine, staying active by lifting twice a day, eating a lot and getting sleep. He’s hoping that by the time the season starts he can get to the 220-225 pound range. After a productive quarantine, he was happy to get out and compete at the Warren Academy Showcase in Omaha.
“It was pretty fun,” Helms told Hail Varsity. “I wasn’t able to go to too many camps last summer and this summer with all the Coronavirus stuff it’s been kind of a struggle. It was fun today to get out here and play with some guys.”
Helms had some pretty specific goals on what he wanted to accomplish at the camp. He wanted to catch every pass thrown his way, as well as posting strong numbers for the 40-yard-dash, pro agility and vertical. He believes he caught every pass but one, while posting a 4.3 agility, 33.2 vertical and 4.96 40-yard dash.
Right now, Helms holds just one early scholarship offer from Iowa State. He said that he hears from Nebraska at least once a week. He is also in touch with Kansas State, Stanford, Penn State and UNLV.
His relationship is building nicely with the Huskers, especially with inside linebackers coach Barrett Ruud.
“Me and Coach Ruud talk every week,” Helms said. “We just catch up and talk about what our day was and stuff like that. He wants to get me down there for a visit when all this Coronavirus stuff is over. That should be pretty fun. I’ll get down to some games as well.”
Bellevue West has started its preparations for the 2020 season. They had team camp two weeks ago and began 7-on-7 last week. The Thunderbirds will start practices on Monday, Aug. 10. Helms has enjoyed getting back around his teammates.
“It’s been fun,” Helms said. “We are good group of guys. We get along really well and we love each other. We play as a team and on and off the field. It’s just been fun to compete against the guys again.”
Helms is still early in his recruitment, which means there is plenty of time for him to continue picking up offers. It seems likely that he will if he keeps developing his game. Still, he has a few things that he’s looking for in his future college.
“I’ll say good location, my family wants follow me for my college career,” Helms said. “Good education and an offense that I can fit into well because I’m going to be playing more flex like tight end and wide receiver. Plus, a good coaching staff.”
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