4-Star EDGE Dre Quinn Breaks Down Visit to Rocky Top, Time Spent with Josh Heupel
Rocky Top hosted a big-time visitor over the weekend as 4-star EDGE rusher Dre Quinn made the trip to Knoxville to get an up-close look at the Tennessee Volunteers’ football program. Quinn, a 6-foot-4, 240-pound standout from Atlanta, Georgia, is one of the most sought-after edge defenders in the 2025 class. Ranked as a top-100 prospect nationally, Quinn’s blend of explosiveness, power, and versatility has caught the attention of numerous Power Five programs.
Quinn’s visit to Tennessee gave him the opportunity to see the program’s facilities, meet with the coaching staff, and soak in the game-day atmosphere on Rocky Top. By the end of the visit, the talented pass rusher walked away with a positive impression of the Volunteers.
Breaking Down the Visit
“This visit was everything I hoped for,” Quinn said. “Tennessee has a great atmosphere, and you can tell how much the program means to the community. Everywhere you go, people are passionate about the Vols. It’s a special place.”
Quinn was given a full tour of Tennessee’s state-of-the-art facilities, including the weight room, training areas, and the newly upgraded Neyland Stadium. He also spent time learning about the academic support and player development programs the university offers.
“The facilities are incredible, but what stood out to me the most was how focused they are on helping you succeed off the field,” Quinn noted. “They’re not just about football. They care about you as a person and want you to have a bright future no matter what.”
Strong Connection with Josh Heupel
A major highlight of the visit for Quinn was the time he spent with head coach Josh Heupel. Known for his player-first approach and infectious energy, Heupel made a strong impression on the elite recruit.
“Coach Heupel is the real deal,” Quinn said. “He’s not just a great coach but also a great person. He’s genuine, and you can tell he really cares about his players. He’s building something special at Tennessee.”
Quinn mentioned that Heupel’s vision for the program and his emphasis on developing players on and off the field resonated with him. “He talked about how they’re focused on creating a family atmosphere and how they want to help players reach their full potential. That’s something I want to be a part of,” he added.
The Role in Tennessee’s Defense
Tennessee’s coaching staff, including defensive coordinator Tim Banks and EDGE coach Mike Ekeler, took time to explain how Quinn could fit into their defensive scheme. Known for his ability to pressure quarterbacks and set the edge against the run, Quinn’s skill set aligns perfectly with Tennessee’s aggressive defensive philosophy.
“They showed me film of how they use their edge rushers, and I could really see myself thriving in their system,” Quinn said. “They want guys who can get after the quarterback, and that’s what I do best. I feel like I’d have the opportunity to make an impact early.”
Game-Day Atmosphere
Quinn also had the chance to experience Neyland Stadium on a game day, an experience he called “unforgettable.” The electric crowd, the iconic “Rocky Top” anthem, and the passionate fanbase left a lasting impression.
“The energy in that stadium is something else,” he said. “The fans are loud and love their team. Playing in that kind of atmosphere would be amazing.”
Moving Forward
With several other programs vying for Quinn’s commitment, the EDGE rusher plans to take his time and evaluate his options. He has visits lined up with other top programs but admitted that Tennessee made a strong case for itself during his time on Rocky Top.
“I’m not ready to make a decision yet, but Tennessee definitely gave me a lot to think about,” Quinn said. “They’re building something special, and it’s exciting to see where they’re headed.”
For Josh Heupel and the Vols, hosting Quinn was an important step in their pursuit of one of the most dynamic EDGE players in the 2025 class. With the relationships being built and the program’s upward trajectory, Tennessee is positioning itself as a serious contender in Quinn’s recruitment.