Nick Saban and his coaching staff were able to work some of their magic on 4-Star Safety, DeMarcco Hellams, during his official visit. As a result, they got their 3rd defensive back commit in their 2019 recruiting class.
Alabama knew they had to make a splash in the secondary during last year’s recruiting cycle and boy did they ever. What some considered a down year for the Tide, in terms of recruiting, was no fault to the talent defensive back class they landed. The class was lead by 5-Star Patrick Surtain and was rounded out with 4-Star Josh Jobe, 4-Star Jalyn Armour-Davis, 4-Star Saivion Smith and 3-Star Eddie Smith. This impressive feat gave the Tide some talented young guys and added depth to a secondary that lost all if its starters the previous season.
The Crimson Tide are once again on the hunt for defensive backs and this class could very well match the Tide’s 2018 freshmen group. Alabama currently has verbal commitments from three defensive backs: 4-Star Christian Williams, 4-Star Brandon Turnage and 4-Star Demarcco Hellams.
Christian Williams has great speed and knows how to judge the ball in the air. The 4-Star Alabama product is one of those guys that can compete for those 50/50 balls and come down with the pigskin.
Brandon Turnage is one of the more athletic guys in this class and could honestly play on the offensive side of the ball as well. He is very explosive and uses his offensive knowledge to aid him on defense. It is easy to tell this guy knows how to detect plays early and stop them in their tracks.
Demarcco Hellams is a scrappy defender that jumps at any opportunity to force a turnover. He is very athletic, which enables him to play both wide out and free safety. Nick Saban has been known to try players out in different position, so don’t be surprised if he gets the chance to see some time on offense.
The Tide are also in good position with some guys that are still on the board. Jaylen McCollogh, Cortez Andrews, Nick Cross, Jeffery Carter, Erick Young, Daxton Hill and Jalyn Phillips are just a few of the top defensive backs that Alabama Is recruiting heavily. Cross could very well be the next guy to pick the Tide as his Teammate is Alabama commit, Demarcco Hellams, and they are currently on their official visit. Touchdown Alabama Magazine will keep you informed on all developments.
Justin Smith is a Scouting/Recruiting analyst for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. You can follow him on Twitter, via @Jdsmith31Smith
