Tennessee QB Joey Aguilar's Eligibility Bid Denied by Judge

Chancery Court rules against Aguilar's request for injunction to continue playing this fall.

Published on Feb. 21, 2026

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A Tennessee court has denied quarterback Joey Aguilar's bid for an injunction that would have allowed him to continue playing for the Volunteers this fall. Aguilar argued he should be granted a fourth year of eligibility, but the judge ruled against him, citing the potential broader implications of granting the injunction.

Why it matters

This decision upholds the NCAA's eligibility rules and maintains the fairness of competition for all student-athletes. While Aguilar could have lost millions in NIL opportunities, the judge believed granting the injunction could have had sweeping and uncertain effects on the NCAA's policies.

The details

Aguilar, who played at junior colleges before transferring to Tennessee, filed a lawsuit against the NCAA in an attempt to gain an extra year of eligibility. The judge cited the low likelihood of Aguilar succeeding on the merits of his claim and the potential for the injunction to impact broader NCAA issues as reasons for denying the request.

  • On February 4, a temporary restraining order was granted in the case.
  • On February 21, the judge denied Aguilar's request for an injunction and dissolved the temporary restraining order.

The players

Joey Aguilar

The Tennessee quarterback who was seeking an extra year of eligibility.

Christopher D. Heagerty

The Knox County Chancery Court judge who denied Aguilar's injunction request.

NCAA

The collegiate athletic association that defended its eligibility rules in this case.

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What they’re saying

“The NCAA is thankful for the judge's decision today, which demonstrates the court's consideration of eligibility standards and protecting access to the collegiate experience for current and future student-athletes. We will continue to defend the NCAA's eligibility rules against attempts to circumvent foundational policies and hinder fair competition to all student-athletes.”

— NCAA (wbal.com)

What’s next

Aguilar has been invited to the NFL draft scouting combine next week, but it remains unclear if he will be able to play another season for Tennessee.

The takeaway

This case highlights the NCAA's commitment to upholding its eligibility rules and maintaining fairness in collegiate athletics, even when high-profile players seek exceptions. The judge's decision preserves the integrity of the NCAA's policies, though it comes at a potential financial cost to Aguilar in lost NIL opportunities.