He also had 30 receptions for 500 yards receiving and four touchdowns, which earned him All-East Bay League honors.

[7] Helu was selected in the fourth round with the 105th overall pick in the 2011 NFL draft by the Washington Redskins.

[10] On November 6, 2011, in his first career start, Helu broke the Redskins all-time record for receptions in a game with 14 catches, in a loss against the San Francisco 49ers.

But he’s gaining experience, and I like what I see.”[14] On November 27, 2011, Helu rushed for a Redskins rookie-record 108 yards on 23 carries and a touchdown against the Seattle Seahawks' top-ten ranked run defense.

[22] He was expected to compete for the starting spot in the 2012 season against Tim Hightower and Evan Royster,[23] but ended up losing the competition to rookie Alfred Morris.

His second season was cut short after being placed on injured reserve on September 26, 2012, due to lower leg injuries and turf toe.

[26] Helu returned from injury and secured his place as the second string running back behind Morris during the 2013 preseason.

[32] On March 10, 2015, Helu signed a two-year contract worth over $4 million with the Oakland Raiders.

[39][40] He is married to retired professional volleyball player and fellow Nebraska Cornhusker alum, Dani Mancuso.