Joey Aguilar isn’t done fighting - not yet. The Tennessee quarterback has officially filed a lawsuit against the NCAA in Knox County Chancery Court, seeking an additional year of eligibility that would allow him to return to the Vols for the 2026 season.
For those who’ve followed Aguilar’s winding college journey, this move is the latest twist in a career that’s been anything but conventional. He started out at Diablo Valley Community College in California, spending two seasons at the JUCO level before transferring to Appalachian State in 2023. After two years in Boone, Aguilar made a short stop at UCLA, but with the Bruins bringing in Nico Iamaleava, he pivoted again - this time to Tennessee, where he played his fifth year of college football in 2025.
Now, he’s hoping the NCAA will recognize that his first two seasons at the JUCO level shouldn’t count against his eligibility clock, potentially opening the door for a sixth year - and one more run in the SEC.
This legal challenge could have major implications, not just for Aguilar, but for Tennessee’s quarterback room. Because let’s be clear: if Aguilar is granted that extra year, he’s the frontrunner to start.
Last season, Aguilar threw for 3,565 yards and 24 touchdowns against 10 interceptions. He brought stability, poise, and production to the Vols’ offense, quickly earning the trust of Josh Heupel’s staff and the admiration of the fanbase. He wasn’t just a one-year rental - he became a leader, a playmaker, and a reason Tennessee stayed competitive in a loaded SEC.
But with his eligibility in limbo, Tennessee hasn’t stood still. The Vols pursued 5-star transfer Sam Leavitt aggressively this offseason, even getting the Arizona State product on campus. But Leavitt ultimately chose LSU and Lane Kiffin, leaving Tennessee to pivot once again.
They landed veteran Ryan Staub out of Colorado, a steady presence who brings experience but hasn’t yet shown Aguilar’s ceiling. They also secured a commitment from 5-star recruit Faizon Brandon, one of the headliners of the 2026 class. And don’t forget George MacIntyre - the talented young QB who’s expected to push hard for the starting job this spring and summer.
Still, none of those names have taken a snap in orange and white the way Aguilar has. If he’s cleared to return, there’s little question who QB1 will be in Week 1.
Aguilar’s case now rests in the hands of the court, and while the timeline is uncertain, the stakes are clear. His return would be a massive boost for a Tennessee team that’s still trying to find its next great signal-caller in the post-Hendon Hooker era.
For now, the Vols wait - and so does Aguilar. But if he gets the green light, expect a familiar face back under center in Neyland Stadium this fall.