DeMarcco Hellams Scouting Report

Background

NAME: DeMarcco Hellams

POSITION: S

SCHOOL: Alabama

HEIGHT: 6’1″

WEIGHT: 208

CLASS: 4SR

HOMETOWN: Washington, DC

HIGH SCHOOL: DeMatha Catholic

DOB: 6/5/2000

GAMES WATCHED: Utah State, Vanderbilt, Mississippi State

Career Stats

2019 (2 games): 4 tackles, 0.5 for loss, 0.5 sacks.
2020 (11 games): 56 tackles, 1.5 for loss, 1 sack, 3 passes defensed.
2021 (14 games): 87 tackles, 2.5 for loss, 3 passes defensed, 3 interceptions.
2022 (13 games): 108 tackles, 3 for loss, 1 sack, 7 passes defensed, 1 interception, 1 forced fumble, 1 fumble recovery.

Biography

Committed to Alabama after his only official visit as a recruit over 27 other scholarship offers. Played WR and S at DeMatha Catholic, sharing the defensive backfield with 2022 3rd rounder Nick Cross. Worked his way into the lineup during Alabama’s 2020 CFP run, then won a starting job before an ankle injury and thigh bruise curtailed his playing time to start 2021. Awarded Outstanding Defensive Performer along with 3 others at Alabama’s team awards banquet in 2022.

Trait Grades

Range: 40 (Below Average)
Instincts: 40 (Below Average)
Tackling: 60 (Above Average)
Run Support: 65 (Star)
Change of Direction: 60 (Above Average)
Man Coverage: 45 (Fringe Average)
Zone Coverage: 30 (Poor)
Versatility: 40 (Below Average)
Frame: 55 (Above Average)
Physicality: 60 (Above Average)
Red Flags: 10/10 – none
Ceiling: 45 (Fringe Average)

Analysis

Aspiring cannonball who was asked to play two high shell almost exclusively this season at Alabama. Eager and able run supporter whose best pro role is going to come as a box safety, which is unfortunate for him given the rise of two high defenses in the NFL. Fluid, quick mover with the frame to cover wide receiver or tight end alike as a potential nickel. Struggles as a deep zone defender because of a natural tendency to keep his eyes in the backfield looking for opportunities to trigger and deliver a big hit. Has great ability to convert on such opportunities, but much more often is caught rotating late on deep-developing routes. Should be a good special teamer with combo of size, speed, and willingness to hit with the exclusive responsibility of see ball, get ball. Will need to move closer to line of scrimmage to have sustained pro success beyond special teams, whether as a big nickel or box safety.