Friday afternoon, a week after Joey Aguilar's hearing for his eligibility case, it was reported that Aguilar was denied his extra year. Vols fans were all upset, and it was sad to see Aguilar not able to get one more season. Tennessee and Aguilar have yet to make an official statement, but I'm sure one will come soon.
The most frustrating part about this is the basis on which Judge Heagerty ruled. He said, "Other DI athletes in a similar position may be impacted and cause sweeping implications and significant ambiguity and uncertainty regarding the eligibility rules of the NCAA.”
Judge Heagerty was not convinced that the ruling would impact only Joey Aguilar.
— Adam Sparks (@AdamSparks) February 20, 2026
Heagerty said other DI athletes in similar position may be impacted and cause “sweeping implications and cause significant ambiguity and uncertainty regarding the eligibility rules of the NCAA.” https://t.co/VYUFO5FHmi
I guess Heagerty thought it would just cause too much harm moving forward? I know this isn't all his fault, but when it comes to these rulings between the NCAA and players' eligibility, there is so much inconsistency, it's infuriating. I guess Aguilar has to fall on the sword because Heagerty didn't wanna open up Pandora's box, which is frustrating for Aguilar, Heupel, and Tennessee football fans.
Aguilar had a legit gripe against the NCAA, but it always felt like an uphill battle for the star quarterback. Courts always seem to avoid ruling on injunctions like this, especially when it comes to a large organization like the NCAA. It's too bad, and we don't get to see Aguiilar in the orange and white one more time.
Joey Aguilar had a great career no matter what
Aguilar will always be known as a hero when it comes to Tennessee fans. When Nico left, the Vols needed an option that was reliable and could keep them afloat, and he did just that. It’s unfortunate we won’t get to see him for another season, especially considering he looked poised to build on his SEC-leading passing performance from last fall.
Now, Tennnessee will have an open compeoption fot their QB1 spot and Aguilar will begin his prep for the NFL Draft. Thank you for everything, Joey.