vols Evaluate Quarterback Transfer Options After Aguilar Eligibility Ends
Knoxville – The Tennessee Volunteers are shifting their quarterback search to the transfer portal as Joey Aguilar’s eligibility has expired. The move underscores Utah’s ongoing priority of finding a seasoned passer to pair with rising talents on the roster.
With Aguilar out, Tennessee is weighing whether to lean on its young prospects or pursue a veteran signal-caller with starting experiance. The program has long valued the potential of top recruits George MacIntyre and Faizon Brandon, though questions remain about whether either is ready to start in the SEC this season.
If a portal pursuit begins in earnest, several established quarterbacks have already signaled their intention to explore new homes, giving the Vols multiple credible contenders to consider.
Prime portal options on the radar
Josh hoover could be a compelling fit if Tennessee seeks a quarterback with pro-level arm talent and extensive playing time. Hoover logged 3,472 passing yards with 29 touchdowns and 13 interceptions in 2025, marking his fourth collegiate season as a consistent producer. He previously drew interest from Tennessee when Nico Iamaleva departed, though Hoover chose to remain at his current program before deciding to enter the portal.
A potential concern for UT is hoover’s mobility. He is less of a running threat, which contrasts with head coach Josh Heupel’s preference for a quarterback who can contribute with his legs. Still, his arm talent and extensive experience could bridge the gap if Tennessee prioritizes pocket accuracy and quick decision-making.
Brendan Sorsby (Cincinnati) stands out as one of the portal’s most sought-after options. In 2025 he threw for 2,800 yards and 27 touchdowns while tossing five interceptions, and he added 580 rushing yards along with nine rushing scores.Sorsby’s athleticism and improvisational ability would align well with Heupel’s system, though the price tag could be important, potentially reaching several million dollars. He has connections to Knoxville through family and has spoken highly of Neyland Stadium in the past, fueling speculation about a potential reunion.
Sam Leavitt (arizona State) brings College Football Playoff experience to the table, which could attract Tennessee’s interest. He dealt with injuries in 2025 but posted strong production when healthy and earned Big 12 Freshman of the Year honors in 2024. leavitt possesses a bigger arm and more mobility than Hoover, offering a dynamic backup plan if Sorsby finds a different landing spot. In 2025,Leavitt produced 1,628 passing yards with 10 touchdowns and three interceptions.
Kenny Minchey (Notre Dame) represents another intriguing option. A Tennessee native, Minchey arrived at Notre Dame with notable athletic traits but has limited game experience. He lost the QB1 competition to C.J. Carr ahead of the 2025 season and now seeks a new possibility. Analysts describe him as a game manager type who is precise in the middle and can contribute with his legs when needed.
Table: Quick snapshot of the four reported portal targets
| Quarterback | Last School | 2025 Stat Line | Notable Fit / Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Josh Hoover | TCU | 3,472 passing yards, 29 TD, 13 INT | Strong arm, extensive starting experience; limited mobility may be a factor for Heupel’s system |
| Brendan Sorsby | Cincinnati | 2,800 passing yards, 27 TD, 5 INT; 580 rushing yards, 9 rush TD | Athletic and accurate; anticipated multi-million-dollar price tag; close ties to Knoxville could help |
| Sam Leavitt | Arizona state | 1,628 passing yards, 10 TD, 3 INT | Mobile, big-arm option; playoff experience; injury in 2025 could temper stock |
| Kenny minchey | Notre Dame | Limited starting experience; QB1 battle ended in 2025 | From Tennessee; regarded as an accurate midrange passer with run capability |
Evergreen insights: why portal QB moves endure
Today’s college football landscape rewards quarterback versatility and experience. A veteran passer can accelerate a new offense’s install, stabilize advancement for younger playmakers, and help a program compete for conference titles sooner. For a attacker-heavy scheme like Heupel’s, a blend of arm talent and the ability to extend plays can be as valuable as sheer mobility, especially when surrounding talent is still maturing.
As the calendar turns, teams often balance cost, fit, and geographic ties. Tennessee’s approach reflects a broader strategy: pair a seasoned quarterback with youthful talent,while preserving developmental pathways for in-house options. The market remains fluid,and a single addition could reshape the Vols’ quarterback room ahead of fall camp.
What this means for fans
For Tennessee supporters, the potential portal pursuit signals a tangible path to immediate competition at quarterback. The options highlighted offer a mix of proven production and upside, giving the staff room to weigh style, leadership, and durability ahead of the season.
Reader questions
Which quarterback profile do you think best suits Tennessee’s offense this year – a mobile, improvisational playmaker or a seasoned pocket passer? Would you prioritize a player with strong leadership experience or one with elite physical upside?
if you had to pick one target to join the Vols, which name would you most want to see leap into Neyland Stadium this summer?
Share your thoughts below and join the conversation as Tennessee navigates its quarterback future.
Disclaimer: Player evaluations reflect publicly reported 2025 season data and listed transfer-interest reports; official roster decisions remain at the discretion of Tennessee’s coaching staff and university administration.
