Tough news arrived Friday afternoon regarding the 2026 season for Josh Heupel and Tennessee football, casting an unexpected shadow over what many hoped would be a defining year. Fans were hoping that Joey Aguilar could get one more year, but its not going to happen according to reports.
Tennessee's quarterback Joey Aguilar will not get another year of eligibility, as the Knox County Judge has come to a ruling, and he's been denied, according to On3's Chris Low. This is some tough news for the Vols, as many thought that Tennessee had a good case, but it seems like Judge Heagerty disagrees. Aguilar's basis was the fact that he would be missing out on wages, pointing to a Tennessee state antitrust law.
With the news, Joey Aguilar will now turn his focus to preparing for the NFL Draft, as the combine awaits him. Right now, he is viewed as a late-round draft pick or a potential undrafted free agent selection. With a good performance in front of general managers and scouts at the combine, he can solidify himself as a day three pick, but he's got some work to do.
BREAKING: Tennessee QB Joey Aguilar's request for a preliminary injunction, giving him another season of eligibility, was denied in court Friday, @clowfb reports❌ https://t.co/L7zbr8RyWJ pic.twitter.com/IUC4OqatKF
— On3 (@On3) February 20, 2026
Where does Tennessee now turn for their starting QB?
It's now going ot be an open competition next fall between George MacIntyre, Faizon Brandon, and Ryan Staub to see who will be the starter on week one against Furman. This spring will be a very interesting one to watch. All three quarterbacks will take the field knowing that every throw, every read, every little detail will be dissected. As of right now, my money is on MacIntyre, but this prediction is merely a guess. We still have a lot of time to go, but he has the most experience in Heupel's offense and looked solid in mop-up duty last fall.
All three quarterbacks offer unique skill sets that can benefit Tennessee. MacIntyre has a big arm and is a very good athlete. Brandon is a highly rated freshman who is smart and has all the intangibles; he is a 'winner,' and Ryan Staub offers power-four starting experience from his time at Colorado. Either way we have a long way to go, but Vols fans will keep their eyes on this all offseason.