Tennessee will have its fifth different starting quarterback in five seasons after Joey Aguilar's preliminary injunction request was denied by Chancellor Chris Heagerty on Feb. 20. The ruling upheld NCAA eligibility rules for former junior college players, ending Aguilar's college career.
With Aguilar ineligible, the Vols enter spring practice on March 16 with a three-way competition. George MacIntyre, a former four-star recruit with one year in the system, faces off against five-star prospect Faizon Brandon, who enrolled early, and Colorado transfer Ryan Staub, who has more experience but may have lower upside. Aguilar led the SEC with 3,565 passing yards in 2025, leaving big shoes to fill for Tennessee's 2026 starter.