Tennessee quarterback Joey Aguilar’s preliminary injunction hearing took place on February 13 in Knoxville, marking a significant moment for his aspirations in the 2026 football season. Aguilar has taken legal action against the NCAA over its eligibility regulations concerning former junior college athletes, aiming to secure his eligibility for one final season at the University of Tennessee (UT).
The outcome of the hearing will determine Aguilar’s future with the Vols. If the judge grants the injunction, Aguilar will be able to take the field for the 2026 season. Conversely, a denial would cast uncertainty on his prospects, potentially leaving UT without its talented signal-caller. The judicial proceedings have drawn substantial attention, highlighting the complexities surrounding NCAA rules and the evolving landscape of college athletics.
During the hearing, NCAA attorney Taylor Askew expressed his admiration for Aguilar and the Vols, remarking, “I love Tennessee football.” He emphasized that the university should not need to navigate legal battles to advocate for their players, reflecting a sentiment shared by many in the Tennessee community. Meanwhile, Chancellor Chris Heagerty, a two-time UT graduate, conveyed pride in Aguilar’s representation of the university while simultaneously scrutinizing the legal arguments presented by Aguilar’s attorney, Cam Norris.
In comments illustrating the challenges of navigating current NIL dynamics, Judge Heagerty likened the situation to a whiskey salesman predicting sales rates in a fluctuating market. The court focused on the potential implications of granting Aguilar’s eligibility, with the NCAA noting that a favorable ruling could inadvertently open the door for an extended duration of eligibility for college athletes — a point that stirred robust discussion in the courtroom.
Aguilar, aged 24, articulated a strong case based on NCAA rules that currently do not impose an age limit on athlete participation. Historical precedents, such as Chris Weinke’s Heisman-winning season at 28, bolster his argument that age should not be a barrier to competition.
The hearing unfolded in a courtroom filled with media, and after the judge’s initial remarks, everyone awaited a ruling that could redefine Aguilar’s final collegiate year. There are indications that Aguilar’s legal team remains optimistic, especially given past successes in similar cases led by Cam Norris, who had previously won against the NCAA regarding NIL violations affecting UT.
As the hearing progressed, Aguilar’s future remained uncertain, leaving fans and analysts pondering what the judge’s decision might mean for both the player and Tennessee’s football program. The hearing could lead to further developments affecting his potential eligibility, especially in light of recent rulings in other cases involving college athletes.