Re: Rams Sign WR Andrew Helmick
Exclusive Interview: Lindenwood WR Andrew Helmick
by Shaun DePasquale
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Lindenwood WR Andrew Helmick is one of the best prospects in the 2013 that you probably haven’t heard about. Recent history overwhelmingly suggests that it simply doesn’t matter what level of competition you come from as a WR, if you have the natural gifts to play the position you will make an impact. Look no further than the impact made by players such as Victor Cruz, Marques Colston, Cecil Shorts and Pierre Garcon to name just a few. Helmick is a physically gifted 6’0 WR, close to 200 pounds, who runs a 4.3 40 yard dash. He has the ability to develop into a dependable option of offense, and can help right away in the return game. It was my pleasure to interview Andrew for NFL Draft Zone.
Shaun DePasquale: Thank you for taking the time to speak with me today Andrew. Can you tell me where you’re training for the NFL?
Andrew Helmick: I’m training in Daytona Beach, FL. I strength train with Tasso Kiriakes at Bodez By Tasso, and doing my speed and agility work with Joesph Foxx & Foxx Performance.
SD: What do you feel are your strengths and weaknesses (things you may need to work on)?
AH: I feel my strengths are definitely my work ethic and speed & strength combination. For weaknesses, I’d like to say I’m always working on every part of my game, but what I spend most time perfecting is being a little more loose while running, especially through the hips, and being more of a vocal leader. I’ve always led by example, but I’m working on being vocally there as well.
SD: How do you feel your time at Lindenwood’s helped you prepare for the NFL?
AH: Throughout my years at Lindenwood we had many talented players I was fortunate to learn from. We’ve had 3 WR’s my first two years there sign NFL contracts, so I was blessed learning from them as a young student athlete. We also had other WR’s who weren’t signed but in my eye just as good as the others. I was able to learn about routes, running, what to look for in a defense, and great blocking techniques. I have been surrounded by talent since the beginning.
SD: What do you feel you bring to an NFL offense?
AH: I feel like I can offer numerous things to an NFL offense. I truly believe I can be that slot man and be the reliable go to guy. But more importantly, I also feel as though I could return kicks & punts. Even if its lining me up on kickoff or punt team and covering a kick, I put forth the talent and effort to help the team in ANY area. I realize the importance of special teams and am willing to do anything.
SD: Have you received any feedback from NFL scouts?
AH: They like how I play the game and have instructed me on what I should focus on to get better.
SD: What active NFL player would you compare your skillset to?
AH: I would compare myself to a Danny Amendola or a Victor Cruz. They both run great routes and can catch the ball on any down. Their teams rely heavily on them in clutch situations, and I love that about them.
[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y8xBtvtGTFQ[/youtube]
SD: Does being overlooked coming from a smaller school motivate you to prove doubters wrong?
AH: I honestly do my best to block out doubters. I put less emphasis on proving the doubters wrong, but more on proving those who believed in me right. Being a D2 guy, I have every intention of making those who believe in me, proud.
SD: What has been your greatest accomplishment, athletically or personally ?
AH: My greatest accomplishment without a doubt has nothing to do with sports. This past year I’ve built a strong relationship with God, and that’s something that no one can take away with you. In times of struggle and anxiety, I like to take a step back and remember there are bigger things in life than the struggles we go through, and to be thankful I know Christ.
SD: If you could have dinner with any 3 people, living or otherwise, who would they be and why?
AH: First person I would have dinner with is Jesus Christ. I have a million questions I would want to ask him, plus he’s our savior, so why not? Secondly, I would enjoy having dinner with Herm Edwards. He’s so passionate about the game and what he does. It’s incredible. Every time he’s on ESPN the energy he provides is awesome, that’s the type of person I try and be. You have to love passionate people. Lastly, I would have dinner with Alexander The Great. He was an amazing leader and was tutored by one of the greatest minds Aristotle. He never lost a battle, so obviously motivation and strategic planning are essential to him, and I’d like to know how he did it.
[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7zB0Xk_dLcU[/youtube]
SD: What player growing up did you most admire and model your game after?
AH: I used to be a running back in little league, and growing up in Kansas City I loved Priest Holmes. He used to always dive over the end zone pile, so when I was in 3rd & 4th grade, I used to dive over everything I possibly could trying to be like him. There are holes in the wall at my house from me diving over the table onto the couch. He had a commercial I’ll never forget where he said: “ya blink, ya miss me. Ya don’t blink, ya still miss me.” That’s stuck in my head since grade school. But when I was switched to WR I would say Wes Welker became someone who I modeled my game after.
SD: Give me the name of a teammate that isn’t talked about nearly enough.
AH: Denodus O’Bryant is a freak of nature. He’s our running back who’s also training for the NFL, and he can do it all. Just watch his high light tape on YouTube and see for yourself, runs through contact, legs never stop, and his burst is ridiculous. I’m excited to see him catch everyone’s eye at the pro day.
SD: What message would you like to send to NFL teams about Andrew Helmick?
AH: Simply that I’m a hard working individual that gives it all on every down. It doesn’t matter what you ask me to do for the team, I’ll do it to the best of my ability. I’m a huge competitor as well, so I’ll try and be the best at every small detail.
SD: Last question, what would be your first purchase with an NFL paycheck?
AH: I can’t answer that question, because my first NFL paycheck is going in the bank and not purchasing anything. I’ve never had more than probably $300 in my account at once, so I’m putting the check in, printing the receipt, and enjoying the moment.
SD: Thank you so much for your time Andrew. Good luck in your journey!
