Alabama is pursuing a quarterback commitment against an SEC rival.

Faizon Brandon is the No. 1 player in 247 Sports’ Class of 2026 recruiting rankings and, as of now, he’s set on playing for Josh Heupel and Tennessee. That isn’t stopping Alabama or LSU from trying to woo the Grimsley (N.C.) High School quarterback.

“Tennessee 5-star QB commit Faizon Brandon remains ‘100 percent locked in’ with the Vols, despite the consistent pursuit from Alabama and LSU, he tells @matt_ray_,” On3 Recruits wrote Thursday on X.

Brandon committed to Tennessee last August. He’s frequently returned to Knoxville since and has helped try to sway fellow prospects to join him. Last weekend, he spent time with safety Joey O’Brien and defensive lineman Damari Simeon — both four-stars — and five-star receiver Tristen Keys. Brandon also texts several guys, namely tailback Savion Hiter and offensive lineman Darius Gray.

247 Sports’ director of scouting Andrew Ivins compares Brandon to Las Vegas Raiders quarterback Geno Smith. Brandon guided Grimsley to a 16-0 record and a Class 4A state title as a junior. He threw for 2,814 yards, 35 touchdowns, and just two interceptions. On the ground, he went for 625 yards and nine scores.

“Ascending signal caller that possesses a rare blend of pocket-passer size and dual-threat athleticism to go along with a high-powered arm,” Ivins wrote in a scouting report. “Game tape shows a potential game-breaker at the next level.”

Kalen DeBoer and Alabama currently have three commitments in their 2026 crop — athlete Zyan Gibson, edge rusher Jamarion Matthews, and defensive lineman Chris Booker. The Crimson Tide are adding five-star passer Keelon Russell in the 2025 cycle.