QB Joey Aguilar is Heading to Rocky Top! Big Arm. Big Plays. Big Things Coming for the Vols!

In a bold and strategic move that’s sending shockwaves through the college football world, the Tennessee Volunteers have landed a dynamic new signal-caller: Joey Aguilar, one of the most exciting quarterbacks in the transfer portal, is officially headed to Knoxville.

Known for his cannon arm, creative playmaking, and confident presence in the pocket, Aguilar brings immediate star power and a fresh edge to Josh Heupel’s high-octane offense. As Tennessee continues to reload and chase SEC dominance, the arrival of Aguilar signals big things to come on Rocky Top.

“Big arm. Big plays. Big future,” Tennessee’s social media team posted in a hype-filled video reveal. “Welcome to Neyland, Joey.”

Aguilar’s journey hasn’t followed the traditional blue-chip quarterback path—but that only adds to the buzz. Originally a standout at Appalachian State, Aguilar took the Sun Belt by storm over the last two seasons, breaking records and developing a reputation as one of the most underrated QBs in the country.

In 2023, Aguilar threw for 3,757 yards and 33 touchdowns, leading App State to a Sun Belt title game appearance and earning All-Conference honors. His deep-ball accuracy, off-script creativity, and unshakable poise in big moments made him a portal priority the moment he announced his intent to transfer.

What set him apart from other quarterbacks in the portal? Production, maturity, and versatility.

Aguilar has already proven he can thrive in a fast-tempo system. He’s played through adversity, handled pressure, and shown the kind of leadership that coaches covet. Now, he’ll take those traits to one of the most explosive offenses in the Power Five.

It’s no secret that Josh Heupel’s offensive system thrives with quarterbacks who can stretch the field vertically, make quick decisions, and operate with tempo. Aguilar checks every box.

In many ways, he resembles a hybrid of past Heupel signal-callers—Hendon Hooker’s deep-ball touch, Joe Milton’s arm strength, and Nico Iamaleava’s mobility—and brings the added bonus of several years of starting experience.

With Aguilar under center, Tennessee can unleash its signature deep passing game and take advantage of an athletic, young wide receiver corps. His ability to read coverages and make throws on the move will allow Heupel to open up the playbook even further.

“Joey’s film speaks for itself,” one Tennessee assistant said. “He’s fearless. He’s fluid. And he’s coming here to win.”

Aguilar’s arrival instantly elevates the competition inside the Vols’ quarterback room, which already includes five-star sophomore Nico Iamaleava—the presumed face of the program’s future—and several highly regarded underclassmen.

While Iamaleava is still widely viewed as Tennessee’s long-term answer, Aguilar brings veteran depth, pressure-tested experience, and a proven ability to lead an offense at a high level. Whether he wins the starting job or serves as a high-level backup, his presence raises the floor—and the ceiling—of the entire offense.

Heupel and offensive coordinator Joey Halzle now have flexibility, something few SEC teams can claim. If Aguilar starts, Tennessee gets a poised, plug-and-play veteran. If Iamaleava wins out, the Vols still benefit from having one of the most capable No. 2 QBs in the nation.

In an age where injuries and matchups can change a season, having multiple starting-caliber quarterbacks is a major luxury.

Beyond the stats and arm talent, Aguilar’s leadership is what has coaches most excited. Teammates at App State consistently praised his work ethic, preparation, and ability to galvanize the locker room.

He’s already made a strong first impression on his future teammates, participating in early summer workouts and spending time with skill position players to build chemistry. According to team insiders, he’s earned respect quickly.

“Joey walks into a room and guys listen,” said one player close to the program. “You can tell he’s been through the battles.”

That quiet confidence could prove vital in guiding a Tennessee offense that is loaded with young talent, particularly at receiver and running back. Aguilar offers a calming, veteran voice who knows how to keep an offense steady in tough road environments—something Tennessee will need with key SEC matchups looming.

Aguilar’s transfer is the latest in a string of savvy moves by Josh Heupel and his staff as they reload for what could be a pivotal 2025 season. With SEC realignment looming and CFP expansion underway, the window is wide open for Tennessee to make another big run.

The Vols have added key pieces through the portal—particularly on the offensive line and at wide receiver—and bring back several rising stars on defense. With Aguilar on board, Tennessee now boasts one of the most balanced and explosive rosters in the SEC East.

If the quarterback play clicks, the Vols could find themselves right back in the SEC Championship conversation.

Tennessee fans, never shy about their passion, have responded to the Aguilar news with an outpouring of enthusiasm. Social media lit up with highlights from his time at App State—laser throws, clutch touchdowns, and daring scrambles—all now reimagined in orange and white.

#JoeyToRockyTop trended regionally within minutes of the announcement, and Neyland Stadium’s official Instagram account posted a photoshopped image of Aguilar under the lights, captioned:
“The Next Chapter Begins.”

For a fanbase still chasing its first SEC title since 1998, Aguilar’s addition represents hope, ambition, and urgency—three things Heupel has reignited in Knoxville since his arrival.

As summer progresses, Aguilar will continue learning the Vols’ playbook, building rapport with receivers, and competing for reps as fall camp approaches. He’s expected to be a full participant in camp and could factor heavily into Tennessee’s season-opening quarterback battle.

Early season matchups, including a high-profile non-conference game and early SEC showdowns, will provide a proving ground—not just for Aguilar, but for the Vols as a whole. If he wins the starting job, he’ll have a chance to showcase his talents on a national stage and prove he belongs among the best quarterbacks in the Power Five.

And if he’s called upon mid-season due to injury or need, few in Knoxville will worry. Joey Aguilar has already shown he’s ready when the lights are brightest.

In today’s college football landscape, landing a quarterback like Joey Aguilar is a game-changer. He brings experience, leadership, production, and a sense of calm to an already talented Tennessee roster. Whether he starts, shares time, or simply raises the standard in the quarterback room, Aguilar’s presence instantly upgrades the Vols’ outlook for 2025.

Heupel needed someone who could lead, inspire, and deliver in big moments.
Aguilar has done it before—and now, he’ll do it in the SEC, under the lights at Neyland.

Big Arm. Big Plays. Big things are coming for the Tennessee Volunteers.