Tennessee Football Lands Transfer QB Joey Aguilar from UCLA, Appalachian State
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — Tennessee football continues to bolster its quarterback depth with the expected addition of former UCLA and Appalachian State signal-caller Joey Aguilar, a seasoned veteran known for his strong arm, mobility, and leadership under center.
Aguilar, who began his college career at Diablo Valley College in California, gained national recognition after transferring to Appalachian State, where he flourished in the Mountaineers’ high-powered offense. After briefly being part of the UCLA program, Aguilar is now expected to join the Tennessee Volunteers, providing a valuable veteran presence and competition in the quarterback room heading into the 2025 season.
From JUCO to the SEC: Aguilar’s Path
Aguilar’s journey to Knoxville has been anything but traditional. Coming out of Freedom High School in Oakley, California, he was lightly recruited, ultimately landing at Diablo Valley College. There, he showcased his skills over two seasons, throwing for over 3,000 yards and 21 touchdowns. His standout play caught the attention of Appalachian State, where he transferred in 2022.
At App State, Aguilar made an immediate impact. After stepping in for an injured starter early in the 2023 season, he seized the starting job and never looked back. In his lone full season as the Mountaineers’ starter, Aguilar threw for over 3,700 yards and 33 touchdowns, leading the team to an 8–5 record and a bowl appearance. His ability to extend plays and deliver accurate throws under pressure made him one of the top quarterbacks in the Sun Belt Conference.
Following his success, Aguilar briefly transferred to UCLA during the offseason, but a crowded quarterback room and limited playing opportunities led him to reenter the transfer portal. That decision opened the door for Tennessee, which had been quietly seeking an experienced arm to supplement its young quarterback corps.
What Aguilar Brings to Tennessee
For head coach Josh Heupel and the Volunteers, Aguilar’s addition is both strategic and timely. With Nico Iamaleava expected to remain the starter, the team has sought a capable backup or even a player who can push for time in camp and ensure depth during the long SEC grind.
Aguilar brings a mature approach, having played at multiple levels and under various offensive systems. His ability to quickly digest playbooks and adapt to different coaching styles could allow him to hit the ground running in Knoxville. At 6-foot-3 and 215 pounds, Aguilar also fits the physical mold of a Heupel-style quarterback—someone who can stretch the field vertically while remaining mobile in the pocket.
While it remains to be seen how Aguilar will fit into the rotation, his presence adds a layer of security to Tennessee’s quarterback situation, especially given the physical toll the SEC season can take on starting quarterbacks.
The State of the Quarterback Room
Aguilar joins a Tennessee quarterback room led by rising star Nico Iamaleava, who is entering his sophomore season with high expectations. Redshirt freshman Jake Merklinger and a couple of underclassmen round out the current depth chart. With the departure of veteran Joe Milton III to the NFL, the Vols were in need of a seasoned signal-caller who could mentor younger players and provide immediate support if needed.
Aguilar’s arrival does not necessarily signal a change at the top of the depth chart, but it gives Tennessee another quality option and competition that could elevate the performance of the entire group.
Looking Ahead
As Aguilar prepares to enroll and begin summer workouts, all eyes will be on how quickly he integrates into Heupel’s up-tempo, pass-friendly offense. While the competition will heat up in fall camp, his experience, combined with a productive college track record, makes him a compelling addition.
If Aguilar is able to grasp the playbook and perform in practice, he could not only secure a key backup role but potentially become a fan favorite in Knoxville for his underdog story and veteran presence.
For now, Tennessee fans can celebrate a key transfer pickup that adds experience and depth to one of the most crucial positions on the front.
