Josh Heupel discusses timeline for naming Tennessee’s starting QB
By Paul Harvey
Published:
Josh Heupel is presiding over a major quarterback battle in Knoxville this offseason, something he likely never expected at the end of the 2024 season.
That’s because the Vols were one of the major storylines of the offseason when starting QB Nico Iamaleava left the program over NIL disputes. Now, former Appalachian State starter Joey Aguilar is locked in a competition with Jake Merklinger, George MacIntyre and Mason Phillips.
On Tuesday, Heupel met with the media and tackled a wide range of topics. In that press conference, he was asked about a timeline and if landing on a starter early in training camp would be better.
“Sure, absolutely, that would give u more time to build continuity,” Josh Heupel acknowledged about making a quick decision. “At the end of the day, I think it’s really important that somebody’s gotta go earn it. It’s not on one throw, it’s not on one day, it’s the consistency of who you are and how you continue to grow from practice to practice. The staff sees that, but more importantly, I think the players see that as well.”
While Heupel gave no indication that anyone is in the front in the battle, Aguilar is likely the favorite to start Week 1 for Tennessee. After playing in the JUCO ranks at Diablo Valley Community College, Aguilar showed some big numbers the past 2 seasons at App State.
In 25 career games with the Mountaineers, Aguilar threw for over 6,700 yards with 56 touchdowns and 24 interceptions. He has the most experience in the room and will try to grab control of the battle in training camp.
With all the offseason changes, the Vols are not among the favorites in the 2025 SEC Championship odds. Tennessee is +2500 to win the conference at DraftKings, and fans can grab the TN sports betting apps to track the odds all season long.
Paul Harvey lives in Atlanta and covers SEC football.
