Before the new year arrived, fans of Alabama football saw an emotion from one of its favorite players that it did not want to behold. After what appeared to be a strong senior year for linebacker Shaun Dion Hamilton, frustration took over in November of 2017.
In his final game against the Crimson Tide’s fiercest opponent in the Southeastern Conference, Louisiana State University, the Montgomery (Ala.) native went down with a torn anterior cruciate ligament injury to his knee. With this being the same mishap that plagued him during the 2016 SEC title game versus Florida, tears and anguish was what became of the situation.
Hamilton missed the remainder of the season, and while he had hopes of winning the Butkus Award – presented to college football’s top backer – the dream was crushed following his 40 tackles, 5.5 tackles for loss and 2.5 sacks.
An inspiring teammate, Hamilton gave Alabama everything he had in helping his squad win its second national championship of the playoff era.
He was named a permanent team captain prior to the postseason, but Hamilton is out to show National Football League why he should not be overlooked in the draft process. Since the injury, he has continued to train and may be able to perform some drills at the upcoming combine.
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A former five-star recruit, Hamilton is highly intelligent in dissecting plays and carries a physicality in making big tackles that goes unnoticed at times. Having him against Auburn in the regular season would have made a difference, however, Hamilton is ready for the next level.
While the injury has some pundits projecting him as an undrafted free agent, a strong on-field showing at the combine and savvy interviews could reposition his stock. Crimson Tide fans will be cheering for Hamilton and the other 13 guys next week at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis.
Stephen M. Smith is the managing editor and senior writer for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. You can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @CoachingMSmith.
