QB Joey Aguilar is heading to Rocky Top! Big arm. Big plays. Big things coming for the Vols!

QB Joey Aguilar is heading to Rocky Top! Big arm. Big plays. Big things coming for the Vols!

How do we feel Vol Nation?!?

#TNV4LIFE #VFL #Tennessee #GBO

The Tennessee Volunteers have secured a significant addition to their quarterback roster with the commitment of Joey Aguilar, a seasoned signal-caller transferring from UCLA. Aguilar’s move to Knoxville comes in the wake of former Vols quarterback Nico Iamaleava’s transfer to UCLA, effectively resulting in an unprecedented quarterback exchange between the two programs. ([QB Joey Aguilar Completes Transfer Swap, Commits to Tennessee …] [Sources: UCLA QB Joey Aguilar plans to transfer to Tennessee]

Aguilar, a 6-foot-3, 220-pound quarterback, brings a wealth of experience to Tennessee. He began his collegiate career at Diablo Valley Community College before transferring to Appalachian State, where he started for two seasons. During his tenure with the Mountaineers, Aguilar amassed impressive statistics, completing 60.8% of his passes for 6,760 yards and 56 touchdowns against 24 interceptions over 25 games. ([Sources: UCLA QB Joey Aguilar plans to transfer to Tennessee] [QB Joey Aguilar Completes Transfer Swap, Commits to Tennessee …]

In December 2024, Aguilar transferred to UCLA, aiming to compete for the starting quarterback position. However, the dynamics shifted when Iamaleava, Tennessee’s 2024 starter, entered the transfer portal amid NIL contract disputes and subsequently joined the Bruins. This development prompted Aguilar to re-enter the portal and commit to Tennessee, seeking a program where he could immediately vie for the starting role. ([Sources: UCLA QB Joey Aguilar plans to transfer to Tennessee][Reports: UCLA’s Joey Aguilar headed to Tennessee in QB swap]([Ex-UCLA, Appalachian State QB Joey Aguilar commits to Vols]

Aguilar’s arrival at Tennessee is timely, as the Volunteers are navigating a transitional phase in their quarterback lineup. With Iamaleava’s departure, the Vols’ quarterback room includes redshirt freshman Jake Merklinger and early enrollee George MacIntyre. Aguilar’s veteran presence is expected to provide stability and leadership, potentially positioning him as the frontrunner for the starting job in the upcoming season. ([Joey Aguilar’s Arrival to Tennessee Could Be ‘Earlier Than Expected’] [Following the addition of Joey Aguilar, Tennessee is set for a three-man quarterback battle]

Financially, Aguilar’s move to Tennessee is structured to mirror his previous NIL agreement at UCLA, with reports indicating a deal close to $1.2 million. This arrangement ensures continuity in his compensation as he transitions between programs. ([Sources: UCLA QB Joey Aguilar plans to transfer to Tennessee]

Regarding his integration into the Tennessee program, Aguilar’s arrival in Knoxville could occur sooner than initially anticipated. While UCLA operates on a quarter system, potentially delaying his availability until June, Aguilar has continued to take online courses at Appalachian State. If he completes his degree there, he could join the Volunteers as early as mid to late May, providing valuable time to acclimate before fall camp. ([Joey Aguilar’s Arrival to Tennessee Could Be ‘Earlier Than Expected’] [Surprising update emerges on Joey Aguilar, anticipated arrival at …]

Head coach Josh Heupel has expressed confidence in Aguilar’s abilities and fit within the team’s offensive scheme. Aguilar’s strong arm and experience are anticipated to complement Tennessee’s fast-paced, high-scoring offense, offering the Vols a seasoned leader as they aim to build upon their recent successes. ([Reports: UCLA’s Joey Aguilar headed to Tennessee in QB swap]

As the Volunteers prepare for the 2025 season, Aguilar’s addition is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the team’s offensive identity and competitiveness in the SEC.

– [Reuters]