4-star DL Dereon Albert commits to Tennessee: ‘Coach Heupel is a great coach’

Jackson (Miss.) Jackson Academy four-star defensive lineman Dereon Albert received offers from 32 schools and took official visits to North Carolina and Tennessee. The Volunteers offered him at the beginning of his sophomore year and have been recruiting him since then. 

Tennessee hosted Albert for his official from June 13-15 and his decision came down to the Tar Heels and the Volunteers, with other contenders being Arkansas, Mississippi State and Tulane. Head coach Josh Heupel and his staff’s efforts paid off, as Albert has committed to Tennessee and is “shutting down” his recruitment. 

“I love the coaches, the environment, the place and the people,” Albert told Rivals. 

Albert’s official visit has been his only trip to Knoxville so far. The 6-foot-2, 270-pound recruit had such a great time on Rocky Top that as soon as he left, he “started to miss it.” 

“It was great in Knoxville,” Albert said. “I spent time with the players. It was fun and they showed me a great time.”

Defensive line coach Rodney Garner was one of the coaches who recruited Albert. The two are very close. 

“My best relationship on the coaching staff is with coach Garner,” Albert said. “We talk all the time. I like how he goes about his business and how he coaches his players. Coach G also keeps all the defensive linemen fresh and ready to play.” 

The Mississippi native was also impressed by Heupel.  

“Coach Heupel is a great coach,” Albert said. “He keeps it real with you.”