Quarterbacks hesitate and chills rush down the spines of players when Al’zillion Hamilton steps onto the field and stares across at his opponents. A blur of sheer instinct, speed and willpower are the combined assets of the senior defensive back at Fresno State. 

Whether he’s blanketing top receivers or just closing in for a game-saving tackle, Hamilton doesn’t just play defense on the field; he consistently erases threats. With his interesting history at Fresno State, Hamilton has quickly become one of Fresno State’s most dependable and unforgettable playmakers for the Bulldogs. 

“Hamilton is a vocal leader on our team,” said Loyall Mouzon, Fresno State defensive back. “He shows us time and time again that we can count on him anytime. He always brings positive and motivating energy.”

Recognized as one of the top 35 defensive backs in the nation before the season started, the title isn’t just an accolade, but a constant reminder of the endless work it took to arrive at this coveted defensive back spot. 

“It’s an honor to be honored,” Hamilton said. “And I think going forward, I’ll have to continue to work harder, but at the end of the day, it’s just pre-season, so I still just continue to work hard for my goals as always.” 

Continuing to chase results, the honor is not just the finish line but more fuel as he sets his eyes firmly on what’s ahead. 

Not just in the nation, Hamilton is also a force to be reckoned with, especially in the Mountain West Conference. Being named one of the top defensive backs in the Mountain West Conference comes with pressure in maintaining, but also the privilege of holding that title. 

Hamilton explains in detail what keeps him levelheaded in maintaining such a respected title as a Bulldog. 

“Just knowing my opponent and knowing the receivers I’m going up against, like their tendencies and knowing the whole team concepts helps when picking apart their plays,” Hamilton said.

As one of the nation’s top defensive backs, Hamilton’s confidence turns heads while also shutting down offenses. It’s not arrogance, but assurance as a Bulldog on the team. 

“I got a level of confidence in myself that nobody knows about and that I always have in me,” Hamilton said. “And I think that is something that stands out about me.” 

Amongst his growing list of recognitions and awards, Hamilton earned a spot on the Shrine Bowl’s 1,000 watchlist alongside teammate Josiah Freeman. This award is a prestigious nod to athletes. It highlights players with legitimate NFL potential. If he continues on his current trajectory, Hamilton knows the next level might not be far off. 

“Everything I have and have earned is from God continuing to bless me,” Hamilton said. “But after seeing my name on that list, it was definitely surprising to be one of the top Bulldogs, so I am just honored to be on that list.” 

Despite the continued attention, Hamilton remains grounded and humbled, letting his work echo louder than his words. 

Before the game even kicks off, the pressure is already sky high. Lining up against some of the best receivers in the game is no small task for Hamilton. Maintaining a solid mental attitude is crucial to rely on in those stressful moments. 

“Going out there and knowing I have to just dominate the person that lines up in front of me,” Hamilton said. “Our coach has preached that a lot, so that’s something I keep in my mind at all times.” 

Being recognized with such high honors, the standard set before Hamilton is to adapt a leadership role for the team that others can rely on. 

“I do see myself stepping up in a leadership role on the team because I’ve been here since 2021, so you know, a lot of guys actually do look up to me,” Hamilton said. “I always got to bring my best so everybody knows I’ll always bring my best.” 

With the next big thing close by, Hamilton knows the NFL is a major possibility when it comes to his future in football. So, talking to coaches for advice and keeping a level head is all a part of the process to the top. 

“Talking to my coach about little stuff about the NFL because I’m trying to prepare myself for it so I think just picking up on how NFL players move around and everything and their tendencies is how I’m trying to be too,” Hamilton said. 

His journey has been anything but typical. The beloved defensive back entered the transfer portal not once, but twice. This is a risky move that typically indicates the closing of a chapter for most college athletes. 

However, Hamilton had different plans. Rather than departure, the transfer portal became a moment of reflection. After entering a second time, then coming back out, Hamilton weighed his options and found what truly mattered. His comeback speaks volumes about his growth and loyalty to the red and white of the Bulldogs. 

“While I was in the portal, [Head] Coach [Matt] Entz kind of like reached out to me and he kind of talked to me throughout my whole process of being in the portal and everything,” Hamilton said. “So after building a bond with him, I kind of made a decision and also talked to my dad and decided I should just finish what I started here, and then I made that decision to come back and finish.” 

Coming to Fresno from Hayward, Hamilton discovered more than just a football team, but a new family that would embrace him through all of the ups and downs and wins and losses.

“What I like most about Fresno is the new family I made and the new friendships I made as well. I got a lot of new brothers from this brotherhood and lots of friends out here,” Hamilton said. “Where I’m from, a lot of people don’t make it out Division 1 or anything, so I think where I’m from, it really shaped me out to be a hard-working player who is always pushing to be better.”

Those who know him best say Hamilton’s impact goes way beyond just stats and highlight reels. More than just fellow players on a roster, each teammate is like a brother who shares the same sweat, sacrifice and dream. 

“AZ is a leader both on and off the field,” said running back Brandon Ramirez. “He sets the standard by working hard every day, and because of that, he is having a great career at Fresno State. Even with all the success, he remains humble and is a good teammate. He is someone that will make an NFL team happy one day.” 

Ramirez is not the only guy who sees Hamilton’s soaring potential and humility. Across the locker room, several teammates echo similar sentiments. 

“AZ is a great player and makes me better every day. He’s also a very humble guy and a team player,” said wide receiver Malakai Sumter. “He’ll never take a rep off and he’s always trying to make someone better while also working on his own craft too.” 

Fellow defensive back RL Miller also says Hamilton is a motivating backbone the team can always rely on. 

“AZ is the kind of guy you’re always glad to have on your team,” Miller said. “He works hard, stays positive and is always willing to step in and help when someone needs it. What makes him stand out isn’t just his effort, but the way he treats people with respect, encouragement and genuine kindness.” 

Miller described Hamilton’s character as being a guy you can always count on to celebrate both the small and big wins. Additionally, Hamilton is someone who will always offer his support and make everyone around him a better person. 

Long before he was making game-saving tackles and igniting the crowds with his thunderous touchdowns under the stadium lights, Hamilton was swinging for the fences on the dusty baseball diamond. Baseball was his first passion before football took center stage in his life. 

“I grew up really playing baseball, then football was my second sport, so I kind of just grew up playing baseball and football,” Hamilton said. “Those are definitely my two passions in life.” 

On Aug. 30, Hamilton and the Bulldogs secured a win against Georgia Southern, where they delivered a commanding 42-14 win, powered by their explosive attacks and outstanding performances from running backs like Rayshon “Speedy” Luke and Bryson Donelson. Hamilton helped anchor a powerful and dominant defensive effort in Fresno State’s first win under Entz. Hamilton’s leadership and presence in the secondary were instrumental in defeating Georgia Southern University in the second half.

“We played dominant that Saturday and I want that to happen every Saturday,” Hamilton said. “We’ll make that happen by coming out here every day and practicing Monday through Friday and then come Saturday, making the game as easy as possible because we’ve been practicing every day all week.” 

From entering and exiting the transfer portal to standing beneath the searing glow of the stadium lights, Hamilton is continuing to redefine what it means to be a leader and a Bulldog. Hamilton is not just defending the field as a defensive back — he’s defending a legacy. As the stakes grow higher, the spotlight continues to shine brighter on the No. 3.