Nation’s No. 1 QB Sends Clear Message to Tennessee’s 4-Star Commit

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Matt De Lima | Last updated Jul 1, 2025 3:53 PM ET

It's been nearly a year since quarterback Faizon Brandon committed to the Tennessee Volunteers. The No. 1 rated quarterback in the country has seen his team finish with the 11th-best recruiting class in 2025 and the Volunteers are ranked 12th in 2026, according to On3.

The Vols lost their quarterback when Nico Iamaleava left the program earlier this year, but that vacancy leaves the depth chart wide open for when Brandon arrives in 2026.

On Tuesday, the 6-foot-3, 200-pound signal caller celebrated the arrival of another big-time commitment who will likely be by his side when they arrive in Knoxville, Tennessee. Four-star defensive lineman Dereon Albert, hailing from Jackson, Mississippi, announced his pledge to Tennessee.

"Yessir bro welcome home‼️#GBO ," said Brandon in a reply to Albert's commitment announcement.

"GBO" stands for "Go Big Orange."

Yessir bro welcome home‼️#GBO https://t.co/4rpDHaFYok
— Faizon Brandon (@faizon_brandon) July 1, 2025

Speaking on his commitment decision, Albert explained what impressed him about the SEC powerhouse.

“I love the coaches, the environment, the place and the people,” Albert said. “It was great in Knoxville. I spent time with the players. It was fun and they showed me a great time. Coach Heupel is a great coach. He keeps it real with you.”

The Volunteers now have one five-star commit in Brandon and eight four-star recruits, which includes Albert.

Tennessee's 2026 class is also highlighted by linebacker TJ White, a four-star prospect and ranked 80th in the country by On3.

The other four-star players are offensive tackle Gabriel Osenda, wide receiver Tyreek King, EDGE Zach Groves, athlete Legend Bey, tight end Carson Sneed and EDGE Kedric Golston II.

The Volunteers begin the 2025 college football season at home against the Syracuse Orange on Aug. 30 at noon ET.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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