Collins Hill football freshman making waves

(Photo Courtesy of Jason Getz, AJC)

Collins Hill has had no shortage of stars over the years. Names like Travis Hunter, Sam Horn, and now Deuce Geralds come to mind when thinking about the Eagles. The 2022 state champions are working on making another run at a state championship this season. Getting play time on this team is going to be difficult, but there is one freshman who has been making some noise.

2029 defensive back Jame’l Davis has been putting in work this offseason. Davis transferred to Collins Hill over the summer after spending the spring and some youth years at Gainesville. He played 7-on-7 ball this offseason with IVSAxMob.

After balling out at multiple camps, 7-on-7 tournaments (including at the Brent Key/Corky Kell & Dave Hunter tournament), and more, Davis finally received his first offer from Georgia State.

“I am very grateful for it, I am working every day to not get complacent about it,” Davis said about his offer. He continued, “I have to be in touch with the little things everyday.”

Collins Hill has a very deep team this season. Led by a loaded defense with multiple 4-stars, the Eagles will be hard to stop. Despite only being a freshman, Davis has been getting in on varsity action after the loss of 2027 DB Jeremiah Proctor who basically did a one-for-one trade with Davis as he went from Collins Hill to Gainesville. Davis will pair nicely in the rotation with a couple of upperclassmen defensive backs. Coach Swick spoke highly of Davis and what he has accomplished over the offseason.

“I remember talking to him in my office and doing some stuff on the board,” said Swick. “He understood the game. He has a motor that not every kid has.”

Davis reciprocated the love to Swick and what he has taught him.

“He shows a lot on the formation and he (Swick) is very good on the technical side.”

Davis will have to grow up early as Collins Hill begins its season versus the defending 6A champs Grayson. Grayson has a ton of talent on the offensive side of the ball with UNC commit quarterback Travis Burgress, Western Kentucky commit receiver Jonathan Stanford, and much more. Other top receivers for Collins Hill will be Torre Costin, Cameron Hunt, and more. Davis’ technique will be put to work early in those matchups. Davis and his Collins Hill squad are primed and ready for another great 2025 season.

“I am very blessed to be playing in these games, I am ready to compete. I will come down and hit people, that is why I have the nickname “Hitman” and I am not afraid of contact,” Davis explained.

Being nicknamed “Hitman” obviously comes with some pressure, but Davis spent the offseason in the gym and is already reportedly benching 225 lbs.