Derek Mason knows defense.

Along with Vanderbilt’s top recruiter Charles Bankins, Mason hand-picked three-star pass rusher T.J. Smith out of Moultrie, Ga. during this recruiting cycle, a defensive end with obvious upside at 6-foot-4, 255 pounds.

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Committed since Nov. 3, Smith recently picked up an offer from Mizzou and already has one from Arkansas among others. The Commodores’ coaching staff will now try and ensure he doesn’t flip prior to National Signing Day with visits remaining to Arkansas, Wake Forest and Mizzou.

“I am still 100% committed to Vanderbilt,” Smith told 247Sports. “I love the Commodores and I don’t see myself changing my mind. I just need to take these other visits to make sure I am making the absolute best decision for me.”

Part of Smith’s interest in Vanderbilt has to do with the opportunity at early playing time. His stock has continued to rise since winning a state championship for Colquitt County and in Mason’s varying scheme, Smith could play at outside linebacker or with his hand in the dirt off the edge like current playmaker Caleb Azubike.