Tennessee quarterback Joey Aguilar, seeking an extra year of eligibility after his 2025 season, has filed a lawsuit against the NCAA in Knox County Chancery Court. Aguilar asks for a temporary restraining order against the NCAA to enable him to play for the Volunteers in 2026.

This legal action comes as Aguilar joins a growing number of athletes challenging NCAA regulations regarding eligibility. His complaint states that these rules inhibit his ability to obtain NIL compensation. Notably, Aguilar played two seasons at junior college, which he argues should not impact his eligibility countdown.

The complaint reveals, “If the Court granted Aguilar relief from the NCAA’s JUCO rule in the near term, Tennessee has a spot for him on the roster and would welcome him back,” as noted by the Knoxville News Sentinel. It is estimated that his potential compensation would be around $2 million for the 2026 season.

If successful, this court ruling could allow Aguilar to join the Volunteers while awaiting a final decision. He already has experience, having redshirted in 2019, missing 2020 due to COVID-19, followed by starting games in earlier seasons before his Division I debut in 2023 at Appalachian State.

Aguilar turns 25 at the start of the 2026 season, and while his hearing date remains undetermined, he emphasizes the urgency of a timely decision for his preparations. Last season, Aguilar led the SEC in passing yards per game, totaling 3,565 yards, placing him third in Tennessee’s single-season records, with 24 touchdown passes and four rushing touchdowns, leading the Volunteers to an 8-5 finish.

Should Aguilar’s injunction be approved, it would significantly bolster Tennessee’s prospects as they navigate a pivotal season without reliable quarterback depth.