BEDFORD, NH – The Joe Yukica/New Hampshire Chapter of the National Football Foundation is proud to announce that Bedford High School senior Brody Helton is the winner of the 2025 Joe Yukica Player of the Year Award.
The Yukica Award represents the most outstanding NHIAA football player each year and is voted on by NHIAA head coaches and a panel of media members. Nashua South quarterback/defensive back Cody Jackson and Souhegan running back/linebacker Ryland Raudelunas were this year’s other finalists.
Helton, a running back/linebacker, helped Bedford (11-0) earn a spot in Saturday’s Division I championship game. The Bulldogs were the only Division I team that finished the 2025 regular season unbeaten.
Through 11 games, Helton has run for 1,500 yards and 17 touchdowns on 162 carries, and has 15 receptions for 178 yards and a TD. He has also recorded 64 tackles (three sacks) and returned an interception for a touchdown.
“Helton … the kid’s special,” Londonderry coach Jimmy Lauzon said. “His cuts are great and he has the ability to make you miss. He doesn’t have breakaway speed, but he has every other attribute you’re looking for in a running back. He can take over a game at any point.”
For more information about the Joe Yukica Chapter of the National Football Foundation visit www.joeyukicafootballfoundation.org.