Joey Aguilar’s Commitment to Tennessee Football: A New Chapter Begins
Introduction
In a significant development for Tennessee Volunteers football, quarterback Joey Aguilar has officially committed to the program. Aguilar’s journey to Knoxville has been marked by determination and adaptability, and his arrival signals a new era for the Vols’ offense.
Early Life and High School Career
Joey Aguilar hails from Oakley, California, where he attended Freedom High School. During his high school years, Aguilar showcased his prowess as a dual-threat quarterback, accumulating impressive statistics that set the stage for his collegiate career. He completed 336 of 552 pass attempts for 5,575 yards and 59 touchdowns, while also rushing for 151 yards and four touchdowns. These achievements highlighted his versatility and playmaking ability, earning him recognition as one of the top quarterbacks in his class.
College Journey: From Diablo Valley to Appalachian State
After high school, Aguilar began his collegiate career at Diablo Valley College, a junior college in California. In his two seasons there, he demonstrated significant growth, completing 228 of 379 passes for 2,992 yards and 21 touchdowns, while also rushing for 619 yards and two touchdowns. His performance caught the attention of Division I programs, leading to his transfer to Appalachian State University.
At Appalachian State, Aguilar quickly made an impact. In his first season, he stepped in as the starting quarterback and led the team with poise and confidence. Over two seasons, he threw for 6,760 yards and 56 touchdowns, ranking fifth in both categories in school history. Aguilar’s leadership and skill on the field earned him accolades such as the 2023 Sun Belt Newcomer of the Year and second-team All-Sun Belt honors.
Transfer to UCLA and Subsequent Move to Tennessee
In December 2024, Aguilar transferred to UCLA, joining the Bruins’ quarterback room. However, his time at UCLA was brief. In April 2025, following the departure of Tennessee’s quarterback Nico Iamaleava to UCLA, Aguilar re-entered the transfer portal and committed to Tennessee. This move was seen as a strategic decision, allowing both quarterbacks to find new opportunities that aligned with their goals and aspirations.
Commitment to Tennessee: “I’m Ready to Give My All”
Upon finalizing his transfer to Tennessee, Aguilar expressed his enthusiasm and commitment to the program. In an Instagram post, he stated,
“First, I want to thank God for guiding me through this journey and opening doors I could not have imagined. I’m excited to announce that I’m officially committed to the University of Tennessee! This journey hasn’t just been mine; it’s been shared with everyone who has supported me — thank you.”
He further emphasized his dedication, saying,
“I’m looking forward to being a part of the traditions, the fans, and the legacy of winning at Tennessee. I’m ready to get to work, compete at the highest level and build something special with my teammates and coaches. I can’t wait to get to Rocky Top! I’m ready to give my all for Tennessee.”
What Aguilar Brings to Tennessee
Aguilar’s arrival at Tennessee brings a wealth of experience and skill to the quarterback position. His dual-threat capability, combined with his leadership and football IQ, make him a formidable presence on the field. Having started 24 games over two seasons, he has honed his ability to read defenses and make quick decisions under pressure.
Additionally, Aguilar’s work ethic and commitment to continuous improvement are evident. Despite the challenges of transferring between programs, he has maintained a focus on his academic and athletic responsibilities, ensuring a smooth transition to Tennessee.
Looking Ahead: The Road to the 2025 Season
As Tennessee prepares for the 2025 season, Aguilar’s presence in the quarterback room adds depth and competition. He joins a group that includes redshirt freshman Jake Merklinger and incoming freshman George MacIntyre. Head coach Josh Heupel has emphasized the importance of competition in securing the starting quarterback role, and Aguilar’s experience positions him as a strong contender.
With spring practices underway, Aguilar is focusing on integrating into the team’s system and building chemistry with his new teammates. His leadership and determination will be crucial as the Vols aim to make a significant impact in the Southeastern Conference.
