Joey Aguilar, a quarterback previously with UCLA (and former Appalachian State signal-caller), is poised to enter the transfer portal, as confirmed by 247Sports. This comes as a significant turn following the developments in the Nico Iamaleava saga.

Aguilar is expected to draw interest due to his seasoned experience and noteworthy performance at the Group of Five level. With Tennessee actively searching for a new starter after Iamaleava’s departure to UCLA, there is potential for a quarterback “trade”.

Tennessee’s staff is likely well-acquainted with Aguilar’s capabilities after he led Appalachian State to 14 wins and amassed 6,760 passing yards alongside 56 touchdowns during his two-season tenure there. Despite some concerns about his performance regressing in 2024 compared to his breakout year in 2023, his experience could position him well within Tennessee’s established system that promotes swift offensive plays.

Aguilar’s arrival could soften the impact of impending transitions within Tennessee’s quarterback lineup, especially with talented prospects such as Jake Merklinger and George MacIntyre already in place, ensuring Aguilar’s presence won’t deter their ongoing development.