Since the transfer portal opened last week, Tennessee football has been exploring its options for a new quarterback, and it appears the Vols have found their man.
Former Tennessee quarterback Nico Iamaleava is leaving the program to join UCLA, reportedly securing around $1 million in NIL compensation while returning closer to home in Los Angeles.
In response, the Vols have landed former UCLA quarterback Joey Aguilar, who entered the portal shortly after Nico’s commitment to the Bruins. According to ESPN’s Chris Low, Aguilar and Tennessee have reached an agreement, making him the Vols’ new signal caller for the 2025 season.
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In a surprising twist reflective of today’s NIL-driven college football landscape, Tennessee and UCLA essentially “swapped” quarterbacks. For head coach Josh Heupel and the Vols, this could be a compelling pickup. Aguilar brings proven experience and production, having excelled at App State before transferring to UCLA, and now potentially flourishing in Heupel’s fast-paced offense.
Aguilar has already generated buzz among fans. Known for his big arm and aggressive playstyle, he put up impressive stats at Appalachian State, throwing 61 touchdowns and 7,212 yards over two seasons, including 56 total touchdowns last year alone.
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Though he initially transferred to UCLA with hopes of starting, Nico’s arrival shifted the quarterback picture, paving the way for Aguilar’s move to Rocky Top. Tennessee took a careful approach in their search, and now it seems Aguilar might be the right fit. He’ll need to spend the summer learning the system, but with the talent around him, he could quickly rise as one of the SEC’s top quarterbacks this fall.
