The Tennessee Volunteers recently added UCLA-Appalachian State quarterback Joey Aguilar through the spring transfer portal, a move that strengthens their quarterback room for the 2025 season. Aguilar’s experience and proven production bring optimism to Knoxville, but his late arrival—expected in late May or early June—presents significant challenges for integrating him into Josh Heupel’s high-octane offense in time to make an impact.
A Proven Talent Joins the Vols
Joey Aguilar arrives with an impressive resume from his 2023 season at Appalachian State, where he threw for 3,757 yards, 33 touchdowns, and completed 67.6% of his passes.
Aguilar’s projected arrival after spring practice creates a logistical hurdle. Spring camp is where quarterbacks master Heupel’s complex playbook, build chemistry with receivers, and earn trust from teammates.
Navigating a Complex Offense
Heupel’s fast-paced offense demands split-second decisions, precise pre-snap reads, and mastery of intricate route concepts. For Aguilar, transitioning from a Group of Five program to the SEC’s faster, more physical defenses adds another layer of difficulty. His 2023 stats suggest he has the tools to adapt, but cramming months of learning into a short period is a steep ask, even for a seasoned quarterback.
Tennessee’s passing game relies on timing and precision. Aguilar will need to quickly sync with the offensive line to make a rapid impact.
Aguilar’s late arrival could complicate his ability to mesh with the team. Leadership roles and team bonds often form during spring practice, with Iamaleava already established as the quarterback room’s leader. Merklinger and Moore, having been on campus, have a head start in building rapport. For Aguilar to earn trust and avoid being seen as an outsider, he’ll need to be proactive in team settings and leverage his experience to build credibility.
Keys to Success
To maximize Aguilar’s impact, Tennessee must act strategically:
- Accelerated Learning: Remote film sessions and virtual playbook breakdowns are essential to prepare Aguilar before he arrives on campus.
- Receiver Chemistry: Informal summer workouts with receivers will be critical for building timing and trust.
- Team Integration: Aguilar must assert himself in team meetings and practices to overcome his late start and earn respect from teammates.
Looking Ahead
Joey Aguilar’s addition is a smart move to bolster Tennessee’s quarterback depth, but his late arrival creates hurdles in mastering Heupel’s offense and integrating with the team. If Tennessee can fast-track his preparation, Aguilar could prove to be a critical asset in 2025. However, if the compressed timeline proves too challenging, his impact may be limited, leaving the Vols reliant on their existing options. Either way, Aguilar’s experience adds stability to a position that can make or break a season.
