Atlanta Falcons select DeMarcco Hellams in seventh round of 2023 NFL Draft

DeMarcco Hellams is now off the board, being selected in the seventh round of the 2023 NFL Draft. The former Alabama defensive back will be playing for the Atlanta Falcons next season after being picked No. 224 overall. In what has been a good weekend for the program, another Crimson Tide player is off to play at the next level.

Hellams spent four seasons in Tuscaloosa, earning his role as a starter for the final two. He was a staple back there at safety, playing alongside Jordan Battle most of the time. Head coach Nick Saban had each guy play at both safety spots throughout their careers — meaning, Hellams will have the versatility NFL teams desire.

“Those are my guys,” Hellams said during the NFL Combine when speaking on fellow Alabama teammates and 2023 NFL Draft participants, Battle and Brian Branch. “We all have different things that we bring to the game. I think I have great instincts, my passion that I have for the game. My versatility I have as well.”

In 54 career games played for Alabama, Hellams recorded 261 tackles and 7.5 tackles for a loss. Four interceptions throughout his career were his highlight but he was also involved in 17 passes defended. There’s a reason Alabama rolled Hellams out there as a starting safety for two years.

Hellams played high school football at Hyattsville (MD) DeMatha Catholic, where he was a four-star prospect. He was the No. 89 overall recruit in the 2019 cycle, according to the On3 Industry Rankings, a weighted average that utilizes all four major recruiting media companies.

What NFL Draft analysts are saying about DeMarcco Hellams

Lance Zierlein of NFL.com scouted Hellams ahead of the draft, discussing the strengths and weaknesses of the defensive back. His ability in coverage and tackling was discussed, with Zierlein pointing out some of the positives and explaining where improvements could be made.

“Boundary safety with good size and adequate anticipation but a lack of quality make-up burst when beaten over the top,” Zierlein said. “Hellams can cover tight ends and is comfortable in split zone looks but needs to do a much better job of staying deeper than the deepest target.

“He’s fairly consistent as a tackler but doesn’t always take the most efficient routes to the ball. He’s physical and can play high or low. Hellams has a chance to become a good backup and plus special teams player.”