As the 2026 recruiting cycle heats up, one name to watch on the defensive front is Dre Quinn, a rising four-star EDGE rusher from Norcross (Ga.) Greater Atlanta Christian. The 6-foot-3, 220-pound junior recently trimmed his list of college options to six, with Clemson, Georgia, Georgia Tech, Notre Dame, Tennessee, and Texas making the final cut.
Quinn is currently ranked the No. 31 EDGE nationally and the No. 30 overall player in Georgia, per On3.
Potential Landing Spots for 4-Star EDGE Dre Quinn
After a breakout junior campaign in which he racked up 42 tackles, 9.5 tackles for loss, and 2.5 sacks, Quinn has earned attention from some of the nation’s premier programs. He held more than 23 Power Four offers, but schools like Alabama, Ohio State, USC, and LSU are no longer in the mix.
With his recruitment narrowing, the coming months will be crucial, especially as Quinn plans return visits and continues to build relationships with coaching staffs.
🚨NEWS🚨 Norcross (Ga.) Greater Atlanta Christian School four-star EDGE Dre Quinn has included Notre Dame in his Top 6 ‼️
Quinn visited Notre Dame in the spring and will return to campus in June for an OV ☘️
Read: https://t.co/krkec74CuZ pic.twitter.com/nc4aNx0pfY
— BlueandGold.com (@BGInews) April 29, 2025
Where Could Dre Quinn Commit?
As Quinn enters the next phase of his recruitment, five programs stand out with strong cases to land the dynamic EDGE defender.
Key factors include coaching connections, development track records, local appeal, and early playing time opportunities. Quinn’s recent visits, growing ties to programs, and regional ties to Georgia make this race both competitive and unpredictable.
Why Georgia Tech Is Rolling Out the Red Carpet for Dre Quinn
Staying home could be a real possibility for Quinn, and Georgia Tech has made a compelling pitch. Following a successful official visit, the Yellow Jackets have positioned themselves as a top contender.
Being close to home, along with the chance to become a cornerstone of Georgia Tech’s rebuilding defense, is appealing. Sources close to the program believe Tech has momentum, especially if they can showcase development and immediate opportunities.
Clemson Could Be Building Momentum
Dabo Swinney and Clemson’s reputation for developing elite defensive linemen is a key selling point.
The Tigers have consistently churned out NFL-ready talent from the EDGE position, and Quinn’s physical tools could thrive in Clemson’s aggressive system. Insiders have noted that Clemson’s staff has been in regular contact and that a potential summer visit could help seal the deal.
Is Dre Quinn Trending Toward Georgia?
The in-state powerhouse remains a real threat. Georgia’s dominance in the SEC and on the recruiting trail speaks for itself. Quinn is familiar with the Bulldogs’ culture and has seen what Kirby Smart and company have done with top-tier defensive prospects. With a history of in-state success and strong NIL support, Georgia will be tough to beat down the stretch.
Notre Dame Is Still in the Race
Notre Dame is quietly gaining traction. The Irish will host Quinn for a return visit soon, and his interest in the program has steadily grown. Known for balancing elite academics with football tradition, Notre Dame offers a unique pitch. If the Irish can impress during his upcoming visit, they could vault into serious contention.
Could Texas Seal the Deal
Texas rounds out the top contenders and brings strong recruiting momentum. With Quinn listing them among his Top 6, the Longhorns’ defensive vision under Steve Sarkisian may be a deciding factor. If Texas can land a summer official visit, don’t rule out a late surge, especially given their recent success on the recruiting trail.
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As Dre Quinn prepares to make a decision that could shape the trajectory of his career, these five programs remain firmly in the mix.
From Georgia’s in-state dominance to Notre Dame’s rising interest, each school brings a unique pitch for the four-star EDGE. With more visits and evaluations ahead, Quinn’s recruitment is far from over, but it’s clear that the race is narrowing, and the stakes are rising.
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