It Is Clearly Unbelievable: Alabama’s No. 1 Defensive Lineman Flips Commitment to Tennessee Vols—The Unimaginable Shocks the SEC…
It Is Clearly Unbelievable: Alabama’s No. 1 Defensive Lineman Flips Commitment to Tennessee Vols—The Unimaginable Shocks the SEC…
For months, Alabama fans had felt secure. The No. 1 defensive lineman in the country, Malik Simmons, had been the crown jewel of their recruiting class. A five-star monster from Hoover High School, Simmons had pledged his loyalty to the Crimson Tide early, shutting down his recruitment despite offers from every powerhouse in the nation.
That’s why, when news broke on a crisp February morning that Simmons had flipped his commitment to Tennessee, the SEC world erupted.
“This is unreal,” an ESPN analyst exclaimed live on air. “Alabama doesn’t lose guys like this—especially not to Tennessee!”
For years, Alabama had owned the Vols, dominating the rivalry with relentless precision. But Josh Heupel had been quietly building something special in Knoxville, and Simmons’ flip was the most shocking proof yet.
At the center of the drama was a late-night phone call between Simmons and Heupel just hours before signing day. Tennessee had been relentless, pitching him on being the centerpiece of their defensive resurgence. But it was one message that sealed the deal.
“You can be another great at Alabama,” Heupel had told him, “or you can be the one who brings Tennessee back.”
Simmons thought about it all night. By morning, he made the call.
Alabama’s coaches were blindsided. Nick Saban, typically unshaken, was said to be furious behind closed doors. Fans flooded social media, some in disbelief, others outraged. Meanwhile, Tennessee’s fanbase exploded in celebration.
The unimaginable had happened. A top recruit had not only decommitted from Alabama—but he had chosen Tennessee instead.
The SEC just got a whole lo
t more interesting.