Vandy lands first 2021 commit in DL Tyler Bence

Huntsville (Ala.) defensive lineman Tyler Bence was already familiar with Vanderbilt, having earned an offer at camp over the summer and returning to Nashville multiple times throughout the fall.

On Saturday, he returned to West End for the Commodores Jr. Day event and became Vanderbilt's first verbal commitment of the 2021 class.

MORE: REACTION TO BENCE'S COMMITMENT | DT TARGET DETAILS VISIT | JR DAY VISITORS AND NEW TARGETS

"The energy the coaching staff has is contagious and the expectations they have for their players is what I'm looking for," Bence said of his commitment. "The program is on the rise. I had a great day with the coaching staff and I feel like I belong on West End."

Throughout his recruiting process, the 6-foot-3, 270-pound prospect has built a close relationship with defensive line coach Jovan Haye.

"Coach (Jovan) Haye has a lot of energy and has a crazy work ethic. His background story makes you respect him, but the way he overcame it, he earns your respect. He coaches his players hard and demands the best out of them while at the same time showing them love. That's the type of coaches I love."

Vanderbilt likes the Alabama product as a versatile defensive lineman that can play both inside and out.

"They like the intensity I bring to the game and every practice, able to play fast while still doing my assignment, and have good hands and feet," he told VandySports.com in a previous interview back in October of last year.

According to MaxPreps, Bence recorded 20 tackles, 4.5 sacks, and forced two fumbles during his junior season.

Bence had early offers from South Alabama and UAB with Louisville and Kentucky also showing interest.