Joey Aguilar: Parents| NiL Deal| Stats| Tennessee| Cure Bowl MVP

Introduction

Joey Aguilar’s journey—from a junior college standout to SEC starting quarterback—is both inspiring and headline-worthy. His story blends athletic excellence (including a historic Cure Bowl MVP performance), an eye-catching NIL deal, and a seamless transition into the Tennessee Volunteers offense. This article delves into Aguilar’s background, his parents’ influence, his college career stats, NIL agreement, and what lies ahead for the Tennessee star.

1. Parents & Early Life

Joey Aguilar was born on June 16, 2001, in Antioch, California, and grew up under the guidance of his parents, Jose and Lydia Aguilar, whose support was instrumental from his earliest football days.

At Freedom High School in Oakley, California, Aguilar tallied an astounding 5,575 passing yards and 59 touchdowns in his final two prep seasons, complementing his passing prowess with 151 rushing yards and four rushing touchdowns. This balanced skill set showcased his dual-threat potential and set the stage for further development.

2. Early College Career & Junior College

Despite his high school success, Aguilar initially flew under the radar. He began at City College of San Francisco, redshirting in 2019 Wikipedia. Seeking playing time, he transferred to Diablo Valley College (DVC). The 2020 season was canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Once play resumed in 2021, Aguilar secured the starting job, completing 102-of-182 passes for 1,546 yards, 13 touchdowns, and six interceptions, along with 261 rushing yards and two rushing touchdowns. In 2022, he elevated his game further, throwing for 1,446 yards and eight touchdowns, and rushing for 358 yards. His success at DVC underscored his resilience and leadership, earning him a Division I opportunity.

3. Rise at Appalachian State

For his junior year in 2023, Aguilar joined the Appalachian State Mountaineers. Initially a backup, he made an immediate impact: in his first FBS action, he was 11-of-13 for 174 yards and four touchdowns in relief of an injured starter against Gardner-Webb. He earned the starting role for the subsequent game at North Carolina, where he threw for 275 yards and two touchdowns.

In 2023, Aguilar shattered App State’s single-season records:

• 3,757 passing yards

• 33 passing touchdowns

• 4,002 total offense yards.

He also led the nation with 15 touchdown passes that either tied a game or put his team ahead, demonstrating clutch performance under pressure.

Cure Bowl MVP

Aguilar capped off the 2023 season by earning MVP honors in the Cure Bowl, delivering 211 passing yards (147 in the first half) and a rushing touchdown in a dramatic 13-9 victory over Miami (OH) played in torrential rain. This performance cemented his status as a rising star.

In 2024, he followed up with continued dominance:

• 3,003 passing yards

• 23 passing touchdowns

• Average of 273.0 passing yards per game

• Career-high 424 yards in a game versus ECU

• Strong rushing contribution with 207 yards and two touchdowns.

By the end of his App State tenure, he ranked among program greats with:

• 6,760 passing yards (5th all-time)

• 56 passing touchdowns (5th all-time)

• Active FBS leader in total offense per game (288.5)

• Second in passing yards per game (270.4).

Aguilar completed his undergraduate degree in communication studies in May 2025, exemplifying his commitment off the field as well.

4. Transfer to Tennessee & NIL Deal

In late 2024, Aguilar briefly transferred to UCLA before making a twist—he ultimately transferred to the Tennessee Volunteers in April 2025, taking the reins following Nico Iamaleava’s move to UCLA

NIL Compensation

Reports from On3’s Pete Nakos revealed that Aguilar will earn approximately $1.2 million in NIL compensation for the 2025 season as Tennessee’s starting quarterback. Interestingly, his predecessor, Nico Iamaleava, also receives roughly $1.2 million at UCLA, despite earlier expectations of a much larger deal—possibly between $2 to $2.5 million—with Tennessee.

Although the value is equal, the cost-of-living difference—41% higher in Los Angeles compared to Knoxville—suggests that Aguilar’s NIL deal offers greater relative value. Aguilar’s humility and gratitude towards the Volunteers have further endeared him to Tennessee fans.

5. Tennessee Role & Outlook

On August 18, 2025, Aguilar was officially named the starting quarterback for Tennessee’s opening game on August 30 against Syracuse. Tennessee coach Josh Heupel praised Aguilar’s rapid acclimation and leadership, noting that Aguilar “is handling himself extremely well” and is “extremely comfortable” leading the offense.

As he steps into the SEC arena, expectations are high. His transition is closely watched—fans hope Aguilar’s App State success translates to SEC victories and potential College Football Playoff contention.

6. Career Statistics Summary

• 2023: Led all FBS players with clutch touchdown passes; Cure Bowl MVP.

• 2024: Consistent passing yardage and dual-threat production.

• 2025 (Tennessee): Setup phase, immediate starter, high NIL valuation.

7. NIL Landscape Context

Aguilar’s NIL agreement of $1.2 million positions him among the highest-compensated QBs in college football, emphasizing Tennessee’s commitment to securing high-performing talent. The equal NIL value awarded to Iamaleava at UCLA offers a cautionary tale—despite expectations of a higher payout at Tennessee, the platforms and surroundings matter significantly for an athlete’s overall return.

8. Future Outlook & Conclusion

Joey Aguilar’s trajectory—from junior college to SEC starter—is more than a personal triumph; it’s a testament to perseverance, adaptability, and a strong support system. With his parents José and Lydia nurturing his early potential, his high school dominance, a breakout at App State, and the lucrative NIL deal, Aguilar now steps into a headline role in the SEC.

Tennessee fans and college football analysts alike will be watching closely to see if Aguilar’s leadership, arm talent, and poise—evident through his Cure Bowl MVP performance and record-setting runs—translate into victories on the field. If his past is any indication, Aguilar is ready to lead the Volunteers to new heights.