With Tennessee backup quarterback Jake Merklinger now planning to enter the transfer portal, it puts Tennessee football in an awkward spot. They could go out and grab a veteran backup or ride it out with the redshirt freshman George McIntyre and true freshman Faizon Brandon. This is all assuming Joey Aguilar will get another saeason in Knoxville
However, if Aguilar doesn't get another year of eligibility and loses the lawsuit, Tennessee could be in a whole different can of worms. Josh Heupel would likely be one of the biggest spenders in the transfer portal, bringing in a veteran signal-caller. The freshmen are talented, but Tennessee would likely bring in a proven starter to fill the void for a year while the young guys develop.
For the sake of this story we are going to assume Aguilar is back and Tennessee is looking for veteran backup options thats can fill in if Aguilar were to get hurt. Let's take a look.
1. Gavin Sukup, University of Indianapolis
We have seen quarterbacks make the jump from division II to the SEC like Trinidad Chambliss did from Ferris State to Ole Miss.
Gavin Sukup is one of the best quarterbacks you have never heard of. He is the first-ever three-time GLVC Offensive Player of the Year. In his career, he has thrown for 9,032 yards, 87 touchdowns, and 19 interceptions. Sukup has played in 36 career games, so he has the experience box checked off.
Sukup is a tough quarterback who possesses a dual-threat game. He's the perfect rental quarterback for Heupel, as he offers a veteran presence while also having the ability to compete at a high level.
Tennessee should definitely take a look at Sukup to fill the backup role.