DeMarcco Hellams

DeMarcco Hellams Bio

DeMarcco Hellams is an American professional football safety for the Atlanta Falcons of the National Football League (NFL). He was born on June 5, 2000, in Washington, D.C., and attended DeMatha Catholic High School in Hyattsville, Maryland. Hellams played both defensive back and wide receiver in high school, earning recognition as the Washington Post Metro Offensive Player of the Year. He went on to play college football for the Alabama Crimson Tide from 2019 to 2022 before being selected by the Atlanta Falcons in the seventh round of the 2023 NFL Draft with the 224th overall pick.

Early Life and Background

Hellams grew up in the Washington, D.C., metropolitan area and attended DeMatha Catholic High School in Hyattsville, Maryland. DeMatha Catholic has a strong football tradition and is known for producing college and professional players. During his high school career, Hellams developed into a versatile athlete, excelling on both sides of the ball as a defensive back and wide receiver.

As a senior at DeMatha Catholic, Hellams delivered an exceptional performance on offense, catching 78 passes for 1,469 yards and 21 touchdowns. He was equally impressive on defense, recording 12 interceptions. His outstanding play earned him the Washington Post Metro Offensive Player of the Year honor, solidifying his status as one of the top high school players in the area.

Path to the NFL

Hellams received interest from multiple college programs and ultimately decided to continue his football career at the University of Alabama. He committed to play for the Alabama Crimson Tide, one of the most prestigious college football programs in the country. This decision placed him in an environment that consistently develops NFL talent and prepares players for professional football.

At Alabama, Hellams refined his skills under top-tier coaching and competed against elite competition in the Southeastern Conference (SEC). His progression through the college ranks prepared him for the physical and mental demands of the NFL.

DeMarcco Hellams Career

College Career at Alabama (2019–2022)

Hellams began his college career as a true freshman in 2019, appearing in 13 games. He recorded four tackles and half a sack during his debut season, showing promise as a rotational player on Alabama’s defense. His freshman year provided valuable experience against college-level competition while he adjusted to the speed and complexity of SEC football.

In 2020, his sophomore season, Hellams saw increased playing time in 13 games. He recorded 56 tackles and one sack, demonstrating improved instincts and tackling ability. The following year, 2021, marked his first full season as a starter. Hellams recorded 87 tackles and three interceptions, establishing himself as a reliable defensive back for the Crimson Tide.

For his senior season in 2022, Hellams returned to Alabama for one final year of eligibility. He led the Crimson Tide with 108 tackles, finishing sixth in the SEC in that category. His standout senior season showcased his ability to be a playmaker and team leader, cementing his status as an NFL prospect.

Atlanta Falcons (2023–Present)

Hellams entered the 2023 NFL Draft and was selected by the Atlanta Falcons in the seventh round with the 224th overall pick. Being drafted by the Falcons marked the beginning of his professional career and fulfilled his goal of playing in the NFL. He joined a Falcons organization looking to build a competitive roster with young talent.

As a rookie in the 2023 season, Hellams worked to transition from college football to the professional level. He competed for playing time in the Falcons’ secondary and contributed on special teams, which is a common role for rookie defensive backs. His first season provided him with valuable NFL experience and the opportunity to learn the Falcons’ defensive schemes.

During the 2024 season, Hellams was placed on injured reserve on August 27, 2024, which sidelined him for the entire regular season. This injury setback required him to focus on recovery and rehabilitation. In the 2025 season, Hellams returned to the field and appeared in 11 games, primarily contributing on special teams. He recorded 10 tackles and one fumble recovery before being placed on injured reserve on December 6, 2025, due to a hamstring injury.

Playing Style and Strengths

Hellams is listed at 6 feet 1 inch (1.85 meters) and weighs 203 pounds (92 kilograms). His size and speed allow him to play both safety and contribute on special teams coverage units. Throughout his career, he has demonstrated solid tackling ability and the capacity to read plays, as evidenced by his high tackle numbers at Alabama. His experience playing multiple positions in high school and his versatility at the college level have contributed to his ability to adapt to different roles at the professional level.

DeMarcco Hellams Career Statistics

Hellams has compiled his NFL statistics across his seasons with the Atlanta Falcons. His contributions have primarily come on special teams and as a depth player in the secondary.

As of the 2025 season, Hellams has recorded 50 career tackles and 1 fumble recovery in NFL regular season play.

DeMarcco Hellams Family

Family Background and Football Lineage

Hellams comes from a football family. His older brother, Delante Hellams Jr., played college football as a wide receiver for Stony Brook University from 2017 to 2022. Having a family member with college football experience provided DeMarcco with guidance and perspective on what it takes to succeed at the collegiate level and beyond. The brothers share a passion for football that has been part of their family dynamic.

Personal Life

Hellams continues to pursue his professional football career with the Atlanta Falcons. When not on the field, he focuses on maintaining his fitness and preparing for the demands of the NFL season. His journey from Washington, D.C., to Alabama and ultimately to the NFL reflects his dedication to the sport.

2025 Season Performance

The 2025 season marked Hellams’ return to the field after missing the entire 2024 campaign due to injury. He appeared in 11 games for the Atlanta Falcons, primarily contributing on special teams units. His performance on special teams resulted in 10 tackles and one fumble recovery, demonstrating his ability to make an impact in a limited role.

Hellams’ placement on injured reserve on December 6, 2025, due to a hamstring injury ended his season prematurely. The injury marked a second consecutive season affected by injury, following his lost 2024 season. As he continues his recovery, Hellams aims to return to full health and compete for a more significant role in the Falcons’ secondary and special teams units.