With Aguilar's eligibility request denied by Chancellor Chris Heagerty in Knox County Chancery Court, the Vols' quarterback position is now open for the 2026 season. Spring practice kicks off on March 16 with a three-man competition between George MacIntyre, Faizon Brandon, and Colorado transfer Ryan Staub.
Aguilar led the SEC with 3,565 passing yards in 2025 but the Vols finished 8-5 and outside the Top 25. MacIntyre, a former four-star recruit, has a slight edge with a year in coach Josh Heupel's offensive system, while five-star recruit Brandon enrolled early and must learn the offense. Staub brings more experience but may have a lower ceiling after serving as a backup at Colorado.