UCLA transfer QB Joey Aguilar has officially committed to Tennessee.🍊

In a dramatic turn of events, quarterback Joey Aguilar has officially committed to the Tennessee Volunteers, completing a high-profile quarterback swap between Tennessee and UCLA.

This move comes after a series of developments involving name, image, and likeness (NIL) deals, as well as shifting team dynamics.

From Appalachian State to UCLA

Aguilar began his college football journey at Diablo Valley College before transferring to Appalachian State. Over two seasons with the Mountaineers, he amassed 6,760 passing yards and 56 touchdowns, showcasing his prowess on the field.

In December 2024, he transferred to UCLA, where he was poised to be the starting quarterback for the upcoming season.

His decision to join UCLA was influenced by the opportunity to play closer to home in California and to work with offensive coordinator Tino Sunseri and head coach DeShaun Foster, both of whom he believed could further develop his skills.

The Tennessee-UCLA Quarterback Exchange

The most significant development came when Nico Iamaleava left Tennessee and transferred to UCLA. Reports indicate that Iamaleava had skipped practices and team meetings, leading to tensions with the Tennessee coaching staff.

Additionally, Iamaleava and his representatives were reportedly seeking an increase in his NIL deal from $2.4 million to $4 million. This situation led to his departure from Tennessee.

In a swift response, Tennessee head coach Josh Heupel and the athletic department secured Joey Aguilar’s commitment.

The timing of Aguilar’s transfer was notably rapid; he entered the transfer portal and committed to Tennessee within hours, a move that mirrored the urgency of Iamaleava’s departure from Tennessee to UCLA.

Financial Aspects of the Transfers

The financial implications of these transfers are noteworthy.

Joey Aguilar is expected to receive an NIL deal close to $1.2 million at Tennessee, aligning with the remaining value of his previous agreement at UCLA.

In contrast, Nico Iamaleava’s NIL deal at UCLA is reported to be less than his previous arrangement at Tennessee, reflecting the complexities and negotiations inherent in modern college football’s NIL landscape.

What Aguilar Brings to Tennessee

Aguilar’s extensive experience and impressive statistics make him a valuable addition to the Tennessee roster.

With over 6,700 passing yards and 56 touchdowns in his college career, he brings a wealth of experience to the Volunteers.

His ability to perform under pressure and his leadership qualities are expected to bolster Tennessee’s quarterback position.

Aguilar’s familiarity with offensive coordinator Tino Sunseri, who previously coached him at Appalachian State, is anticipated to facilitate a smooth transition and enhance the team’s offensive performance.

Looking Ahead

As the 2025 college football season approaches, Tennessee’s quarterback situation has undergone significant changes.

The arrival of Joey Aguilar brings stability and experience to the position, addressing the void left by Nico Iamaleava’s departure.

With a seasoned quarterback at the helm, the Volunteers are poised to make a strong impact in the upcoming season.

This quarterback swap underscores the evolving dynamics of college football, where player movements and NIL considerations play increasingly pivotal roles in shaping team rosters and performances.