Tennessee Football QB Joey Aguilar Is Clearly Winning Over Vols Despite Not Even Being Named Starter Yet
In college football, the quarterback position often defines a team’s identity, leadership, and ceiling for the season. At the University of Tennessee, the 2025 season has already sparked intense anticipation in the SEC, as the Volunteers enter a new chapter under head coach Josh Heupel. While the competition for the starting quarterback spot remains wide open, one name has steadily captured the hearts of teammates, coaches, and fans alike: Joey Aguilar.
Though Aguilar has not yet been officially named the starting quarterback, his impact on the Tennessee football program is unmistakable. From his infectious personality to his impressive work ethic and command on the practice field, Aguilar is proving that leadership and team value extend far beyond a starting title. This article explores how Joey Aguilar is winning over the Vols—and why he might be exactly the kind of player Tennessee needs as it seeks to climb the ranks of one of college football’s toughest conferences.
The Transfer That Sparked Excitement
Joey Aguilar’s path to Tennessee has been a winding journey marked by resilience and determination. Initially starting his college career at Appalachian State, Aguilar transferred to UCLA, hoping for a bigger stage and more playing time. However, a crowded quarterback room and the arrival of Nico Iamaleava at UCLA led Aguilar to enter the transfer portal once again. Tennessee quickly seized the opportunity to add an experienced and talented signal-caller, welcoming him into a quarterback competition that included Jake Merklinger and George MacIntyre.
From the outset, Aguilar’s transfer sparked excitement around the Vols community. His background as a multi-program quarterback brought hope for a versatile, battle-tested option ready to contribute immediately. But beyond his football skills, Aguilar’s character and leadership have truly made him stand out.
Leadership That Resonates
Even without the starting quarterback title, Aguilar has assumed a leadership role that belies his newcomer status. His teammates often speak about his positive influence in meetings, practice sessions, and the locker room. Aguilar’s approachable demeanor and willingness to uplift others have earned him respect across the team.
Tennessee tight end Miles Kitselman summed up Aguilar’s impact perfectly: “Joey’s got this outgoing personality that just makes everyone feel at ease. He’s always lifting guys up, pushing us all to be better. That kind of leader is invaluable, especially in a room as competitive as ours.”
Leadership in college football is more than vocal encouragement; it’s about setting an example through work ethic and preparation. Aguilar arrives early, stays late, and attacks every practice rep with intensity, setting a standard for his teammates.
Commanding the Huddle—Even in Practice
While Aguilar hasn’t yet been named the starter, his on-field presence is undeniable. Observers note his poise, accuracy, and ability to read defenses during practice drills. His communication skills—both verbal and nonverbal—help organize the offense and maintain composure during high-pressure scenarios.
Coach Josh Heupel has praised Aguilar’s preparation and readiness. “Joey has come in and earned the trust of the coaching staff and his teammates. His knowledge of the offense and his leadership qualities make him a key piece of our puzzle.”
Though the starting job is still to be decided, Aguilar’s command in practice signals that he is a serious contender. His experience in different offensive systems has enhanced his ability to adapt and make quick decisions, valuable traits for leading an SEC offense.
Earning the Fans’ Respect
Tennessee fans are passionate and discerning, demanding excellence from their program. Aguilar’s work ethic, humility, and competitive spirit have not gone unnoticed by the fanbase. Social media buzz surrounding Aguilar often highlights his strong leadership and ability to energize the team.
While the “starter” label often captures headlines, the Volunteers’ fan community appreciates the intangible qualities Aguilar brings. His commitment to the team, positive attitude, and fight to earn every rep resonate deeply with those who follow the program closely.
The Power of Competition
The quarterback competition at Tennessee is fierce. Aguilar faces off against Jake Merklinger, a strong-armed gunslinger with a flair for making big plays, and George MacIntyre, a scrappy, intelligent signal-caller with a knack for extending plays. This three-way battle pushes each player to elevate their performance, benefiting the team as a whole.
Aguilar’s ability to thrive under pressure and maintain focus amid the competition is a testament to his maturity and determination. “Competition is what makes us better,” Aguilar remarked in a recent interview. “I’m here to help this team win, however I can. Whether that’s as a starter or in another role, I’ll give it my all.”
Mentorship and Team Chemistry
One of Aguilar’s greatest assets is how well he gels with his teammates. His mentorship extends beyond quarterbacks, offering support to receivers, tight ends, and linemen alike. Aguilar understands that football is a team sport, and success depends on everyone performing their role.
Senior players appreciate Aguilar’s willingness to learn and contribute to team culture. This respect has fostered strong chemistry within the offense, creating a unified front ready to take on any challenge the SEC throws their way.
Overcoming Adversity
Aguilar’s journey has not been without obstacles. Transferring twice and adjusting to new coaching staffs, playbooks, and environments requires resilience. His ability to handle these changes gracefully demonstrates a mental toughness that coaches and teammates value.
This perseverance not only boosts his confidence but also inspires the team. When a player embodies resilience, it encourages others to push through adversity—whether in practice, during games, or through injury recoveries.
What the Coaches See
Head coach Josh Heupel and offensive coordinator Alex Golesh have been deliberate in managing the quarterback situation. Their approach balances giving each player a fair chance while fostering competition and collaboration.
Heupel has publicly praised Aguilar’s football IQ, leadership, and preparation. “Joey is a professional in how he approaches everything. He studies the film, asks the right questions, and helps his teammates improve. That’s exactly the kind of player we want leading this offense.”
The coaching staff’s confidence in Aguilar suggests that when the time comes, he will be ready to step up and lead.
The Road Ahead for Aguilar and Tennessee
With the 2025 season on the horizon, the Volunteers’ quarterback competition is far from settled. However, Aguilar’s ability to win over his teammates, coaches, and fans—even without the starter title—positions him as a key figure in Tennessee’s future.
Whether Aguilar ultimately starts or plays a vital backup role, his presence bolsters the team’s depth and leadership. Tennessee fans can expect a player who is ready to fight, motivate, and execute at a high level.
Joey Aguilar’s story at Tennessee is a reminder that leadership and influence in college football extend beyond starting positions and stats. His infectious personality, relentless work ethic, and ability to connect with teammates have made him a cornerstone of the Volunteers’ 2025 squad.
In a sport defined by competition and change, Aguilar’s journey underscores the power of perseverance and character. While the starting quarterback title remains up for grabs, Aguilar has already won something equally important: the respect and trust of the Tennessee football family.
As Tennessee prepares to face another grueling SEC schedule, the Volunteers can count on Joey Aguilar to bring intensity, leadership, and heart—qualities that will help shape their season, regardless of who takes the first snap on game day.
