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Niklas organized a team dinner at South Bend's Center for the Homeless that raised $4,600 for the shelter, and he and the Irish also provided toiletries, blankets and some welcome company for its guests. photo by Mike Bennett/Lighthouse Imaging said. "As a freshman and sophomore you don't really have the opportunity and the position to do stuff like this, but as you grow and mature on the team you get the opportunity to be a part of this." A new level of comfort is growing for Niklas on the field as well. He converted from an outside linebacker to tight end last season, and at times his inexperience was exposed. He made big leaps in his ability to block to start the season, and has steadily become a bigger target for quarterback Tommy Rees, as well. Niklas is tied for the team lead in touchdown receptions and sits third behind receivers TJ Jones and DaVaris Daniels in catches and receiving yards. His production has increased steadily since late September, growing from a red-zone threat to the middle-of-the-field security blanket that past tight ends such as Tyler Eifert and Kyle Rudolph once were. This summer, Niklas returned from California with a little bit more of his personality along with him. At the Oct. 21 dinner, the team passed out bags similar to the ones that he and his classmates assembled in high school. Each one was complete with a personal note of inspiration from one of the Irish players. Senior linebacker Prince Shembo started the meal with a prayer. Defensive end Stephon Tuitt shared some of his thoughts afterward. Several of the residents spoke up as well to thank the team for stopping by and providing some joy. Niklas wrapped up the night by telling them he felt he was getting more than they had given. He stayed fully clothed this time, but his shirtoff-my-back attitude was still easy to see. ✦