Falcons Rookie Hellams 'Shows Up When Lights Are On,'

Among the biggest surprises in Atlanta Falcons training camp has been seventh-round pick Demarcco Hellams.

Hellams recorded an interception on the opening drive in the team's preseason opener against the Miami Dolphins and responded afterwards with a five-tackle performance (one shy of team high) against the Cincinnati Bengals in Friday's 13-13 tie.

On top of the five tackles, Hellams had two passes defensed during the game.

"He shows up when the lights are on just like he did at Alabama," coach Arthur Smith said. "Continues to find the football. He's a good football player. We're going to continue to work on some other things, but it's a good pattern to have two weeks in a row, going and getting the ball.” 

For most seventh-round picks, it's a matter of whether or not he will make the team, but with Hellams, the question appears to be how much will he play.

Preseason can be deceiving, because once the regular season opens, players like Jessie Bates III and Richie Grant will start, while Jaylinn Hawkins will also be ahead in the depth chart. However, Hellams is making the case to be the next man up, and that could result in more playing time for the former Crimson Tide defensive back.

Hellams will have one last chance to make a statement in Thursday's preseason game against the Pittsburgh Steelers. Kickoff is set for 7:30 p.m. at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.