DeMarcco Hellams reveals backstory to 'Hitman' nickname
Alabama senior DB DeMarcco Hellams has gained quite the reputation. He finished Top-10 in the SEC last season in solo tackles with 54. They weren’t of the kind variety either, so much so that fellow Crimson Tide DB Jordan Battle gave him the nickname ‘Hitman’.
Hellams talked about his new alias during his press conference on Monday. He says he is more than happy to take on the name because of what it says about the kind of player he is on the field.
“It’s just a nickname someone came up with,” said Hellams. “My tenacity on the field (means) I don’t fear anyone. And I’m not afraid to hit anyone so I’ll take that nickname.”
DeMarcco Hellams finished third on the Alabama roster in total tackles with 87 as a junior last season. He also tied for the Tide’s lead in interceptions with three. Pair those stats with that nickname ahead of his senior season and Nick Saban has just another big-time option to work with on defense, specifically in the secondary.
Jordan Battle on Nick Saban in 2022: I’ve been liking his energy
Last year, Jordan Battle told stories about jokes Nick Saban makes behind the scenes, specifically his affinity for “deez nuts” jokes. But has the Alabama safety heard any more quips from his coach this year?
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“Not really any Saban jokes,” Battle told reporters.
Even though he didn’t have any new one-liners to share, Battle said Saban is still maintaining the good energy. That’s one thing he likes about the legendary Crimson Tide headman as the 2022 season opener approaches.
“He’s been laughing a lot in the little meetings we have when we have people come in and talk with us,” Battle said. “He’s been laughing, getting more interactive. I’ve been liking his energy lately.”
Still, Battle said Saban hasn’t changed since last year. But even though Saban went on another all-time rant in a press conference this week, Battle said he’s still in a good mood.
“I guess he’s just in a good mood,” Battle joked. “He’s always in a good mood. I don’t think he’s changed from last year to this year. It’s just who he is, his personality. … I wish everybody [got] to see how he really is every day.”