Tennessee QB Joey Aguilar ruled ineligible for 2026 season

Judge denies preliminary injunction, upholding NCAA eligibility rules

Feb. 20, 2026 at 8:49pm

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Tennessee quarterback Joey Aguilar, who totaled 28 touchdowns for the Volunteers last season, has been ruled ineligible to play in the 2026 campaign. A Knoxville judge denied a preliminary injunction that could have absolved Aguilar of typical NCAA eligibility rules.

Why it matters

This decision upholds the NCAA's authority over player eligibility and denies Aguilar's attempt to circumvent the rules. It's a significant setback for the Volunteers, who were counting on Aguilar's production next season.

The details

Earlier this month, Aguilar had received a temporary restraining order that opened the door for him to play in 2026. However, the judge has now denied a preliminary injunction, effectively ruling Aguilar ineligible for the upcoming season.

  • On February 20, 2026, a Knoxville judge denied the preliminary injunction.

The players

Joey Aguilar

Tennessee's starting quarterback, who totaled 28 touchdowns for the Volunteers last season.

Knoxville judge

The judge who denied the preliminary injunction, upholding NCAA eligibility rules.

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The takeaway

This decision reinforces the NCAA's control over player eligibility and denies Aguilar's attempt to bypass the rules. It's a significant blow to Tennessee's plans for the 2026 season, as they'll have to find a new starting quarterback.