The Tennessee Volunteers are gearing up for an intriguing quarterback competition this offseason, following the denial of Joey Aguilar's request for a preliminary injunction that would have allowed him to return next season. With Aguilar out of the picture, the stage is set for a three-man showdown featuring George MacIntyre, Faizon Brandon, and Ryan Staub.
Let’s break down what each contender brings to the table.
Ryan Staub: The Transfer with Experience
Ryan Staub comes in from Colorado, where he gained valuable experience playing in five games during the 2025 season, starting one. His stats include 30 completions on 55 attempts for 427 yards, three touchdowns, and four interceptions.
He also added 30 rushing yards and a touchdown to his name. While Staub hasn't yet achieved consistent success at the college level, his experience gives him a potential edge.
Compared to MacIntyre’s limited nine pass attempts and Brandon’s lack of college play, Staub’s time on the field is a significant advantage.
George MacIntyre: The System Insider
MacIntyre, a redshirt-freshman, brings familiarity with Josh Heupel’s offensive system. Having spent the previous season as the third-string quarterback, he has had the chance to absorb the playbook and dynamics behind the scenes. With Jake Merklinger transferring to UConn, MacIntyre’s understanding of the system could be his ticket to securing the starting role.
Faizon Brandon: The High-Potential Freshman
Faizon Brandon enters the fray as a highly-touted five-star recruit, ranked as the No. 3 player in the 2026 class. His raw talent and high ceiling make him an exciting prospect for Tennessee. While he lacks college experience, his potential is undeniable, and he could quickly make an impact if he adapts well to the college game.
As spring camp approaches, all eyes will be on this quarterback battle. Each player brings a unique set of skills and potential, making this an exciting storyline for Vols fans. Whether it’s Staub’s experience, MacIntyre’s system knowledge, or Brandon’s raw talent, Tennessee has intriguing options to explore as they look to solidify their quarterback position for the upcoming season.