Tennessee QB Joey Aguilar Sues NCAA to Extend Vols Career to 2026
Tennessee quarterback Joey Aguilar has recently initiated a lawsuit against the NCAA, aiming for an extension of his college football eligibility until 2026. The legal action was submitted to Knox County Chancery Court in Knoxville, Tennessee, asking for immediate relief that would enable him to play while the case is actively processed.
Background on Joey Aguilar
Aguilar’s legal efforts challenge NCAA regulations that currently count junior college seasons against an athlete’s eligibility timeline. His collegiate journey began in 2019 at San Francisco City College, where he redshirted his first season. After the pandemic interrupted junior college competitions in 2020, he went on to play at Diablo Valley Community College in California, ultimately joining Appalachian State in 2023.
Career Stats and Achievements
The 24-year-old from Antioch, California, has had a noteworthy performance at App State. In his tenure, Aguilar amassed:
- 3,565 passing yards
- 24 touchdown passes
- 10 interceptions
During the 2023 season, he contributed to the Volunteers finishing with an 8-5 record and reportedly earned over $1 million. The upcoming season could see his earnings rise to approximately $2 million, as highlighted in his lawsuit.
Legal Challenges Ahead
Aguilar’s complaint follows an unsuccessful waiver request from Tennessee to extend his eligibility. Previously, he was associated with another lawsuit by Vanderbilt quarterback Diego Pavia, which contested the NCAA’s rules on junior college athletes. Although Aguilar was withdrawn from Pavia’s case last week, he has hired attorney Cameron Norris to pursue his own legal path for a year of eligibility.
The recent lawsuit aligns with a trend of increased legal actions against NCAA eligibility regulations. Aguilar’s filing references Tennessee antitrust laws and reflects a growing frustration among athletes who face restrictions on their college careers.
Recent Developments in NCAA Lawsuits
Legal precedents are evolving around NCAA eligibility cases, with athletes like Charles Bediako recently gaining favorable rulings related to their eligibility. Bediako was granted a return to the Alabama basketball team after entering the NBA Draft. Similar movements are being observed among other players, suggesting a shift in how courts may interpret NCAA regulations.
Impact on Tennessee Football
As Aguilar seeks to extend his college football career, the University of Tennessee is exploring options for a potential replacement quarterback. The Volunteers have struggled to secure experienced talent in the transfer portal, with Colorado’s Ryan Staub being a key addition this offseason.
The ongoing lawsuit not only directly impacts Aguilar’s future but also adds a layer of complexity to NCAA eligibility debates. The outcome may shape future regulations affecting junior college athletes and their career trajectories in college football.
