When De’Asian Richardson was pulled out of class to take a phone call on Thursday morning, he had no idea Alabama head coach Nick Saban and Crimson Tide assistants Jeremy Pruitt and Chris Rumph were on the other line.

He also didn’t expect what was coming next: a scholarship offer from the University of Alabama.

“I was shocked,” Richardson said. “I was just amazed. It’s Alabama. That’s the top school right now. I was just amazed that they want me. Truthfully, Bama came out of nowhere. I wasn’t even expecting Bama.”

The junior defensive end from Orange Park, Fla., also has offers from Duke, Ole Miss, South Carolina and South Florida, and he’s been receiving interest from Florida State and Penn State. The Tide offer immediately made Alabama one of his favorites.

“With Alabama, you can’t just turn them down or turn your back on them,” Richardson said. “They’re going to be in your mind. Roll Tide.”

At 6-foot-3, 270 pounds, Richardson plays both ways for Orange Park High School. Defensively, he plays all over the line. He plays tight end and wide receiver on offense.

Saban talked to the 2013 prospect about the possibility of playing on either side of the ball.

Richardson has never been to Tuscaloosa but plans to visit for the Tide’s spring game on April 14. He also said he might come up before then for a practice. Ultimately, he’s looking for a place where he feels home.

“I’m just looking for some place I can call home,” Richardson said. “I’ve got to be there for four years, so I want to go somewhere where I know I can feel comfortable.”

The Florida native is scheduled to visit Florida State next weekend for its junior day.