
Tennessee Volunteers quarterback Joey Aguilar has been ranked as the No. 50 player in college football for the 2025 season by USA Today’s College Sports Wire, highlighting his steady rise and potential impact in the Southeastern Conference (SEC).
Aguilar’s journey to this recognition has been unconventional. After beginning his collegiate career at Diablo Valley College, he transferred to Appalachian State, where he made a significant impact. In the 2023 season, Aguilar was named the Sun Belt Newcomer of the Year and earned second-team All-Sun Belt honors. His performance caught the attention of major programs, leading to his transfer to Tennessee for the 2025 season.
Despite the high ranking, Aguilar’s position as the starting quarterback for the Volunteers is not guaranteed. The team has other talented quarterbacks on the roster, including redshirt freshman Jake Merklinger and true freshman George MacIntyre. The competition for the starting role is expected to be intense, with head coach Josh Heupel emphasizing performance and consistency in his decision-making process.
Aguilar’s inclusion in the top 50 players list underscores his potential to make a significant impact in the upcoming season. His experience and leadership could prove invaluable for a Tennessee team aiming to contend in the highly competitive SEC. As the season approaches, all eyes will be on Aguilar and the Volunteers’ quarterback situation, with fans and analysts alike eager to see how it unfolds.