Today is the day when Tennessee fans officially find out about the future of the quarterback room, as Joey Aguilar had his hearing with a Knox County judge in order to receive another year of eligibility due to his argument that his JUCO time does not count. The decision is a major one for the Vols. If he’s ruled eligible, they’ll have an experienced veteran under center. If not, Tennessee will have to turn to a redshirt freshman in George Macntyre or a true freshman, Faizon Brandon.
In simple terms, Aguilar is arguing that his time at the JUCO level shouldn’t count toward his NCAA eligibility. Along with his attorney, he’s pointing to a Tennessee state antitrust law as precedent to support his argument. Since Aguilar has only played three years of NCAA football at one season at App State, one at UCLA, and one at Tennessee, in theory, Aguilar is arguing he has one more left to play for the Vols. Aguilar is set to miss out on anywhere from $2-4 million hours after arguing in court on Friday.
Vols fans will have to wait for a decision
Well, after nearly two hours in the court, we have a decision. There is no decision! Judge Chris Heagerty announces he will not rule from the bench today, so we will have to wait for what he decides. Judge Heagerty mentioned the 1,200 pages of papers he has to go through and felt it wouldn't be fair to rule without going over everything oncemore. He noted that he understands Aguilar needs the ruling in a timely manner, but he also wants to get the case correct.
Overall, this feels like a win for Aguilar, but we still seem to have a long way to go. His temporary restraining order has been extended for the time being, so he can practice and work out with the Vols coaching staff. If Aguilar is not eligible, Tennessee would be starting its third different quarterback in three years in week one. Tennessee opens up the 2026 season against Furman at Neyland Stadium on September 5.
