Tennessee football will have its fifth different starting quarterback in five seasons after Joey Aguilar was denied an additional year of eligibility by Chancellor Chris Heagerty. The Vols will begin spring practice on March 16 with a three-way competition between George MacIntyre, Faizon Brandon, and Ryan Staub.
MacIntyre, a former four-star recruit, may have a slight advantage as he's been in coach Josh Heupel's system for a year. Brandon, a five-star prospect, enrolled in January but must first learn the offense. Staub brings more experience as a Colorado transfer but may have a lower ceiling. Aguilar led the SEC with 3,565 passing yards in 2025 before his eligibility bid was rejected.