KNOXVILLE, TN — The college football world is abuzz following the highly anticipated announcement by five-star offensive tackle Joey Aguilar, Aguilar, a 6-foot-6, 310-pound powerhouse from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, made his announcement via. who officially committed to the University of Tennessee Volunteers.** The decision marks a major recruiting victory for head coach Josh Heupel and his staff, as they successfully fended off a wave of elite programs—including Alabama, Georgia, Ohio State, and Texas—to secure one of the top prospects in the 2025 recruiting class.
Aguilar, a 6-foot-6, 310-pound powerhouse from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, made his announcement via a live-streamed event at his high school, surrounded by teammates, family, and national media. Donning a Tennessee cap and orange-and-white jacket, Aguilar expressed his excitement and confidence in his decision.
“Tennessee just felt like home from the moment I stepped on campus,” Aguilar said. “The coaching staff made me feel like family. Coach Heupel and Coach Elarbee believe in my potential and have a clear vision for my future both on and off the field.”
Aguilar’s commitment is seen as a game-changing addition to Tennessee’s 2025 class. Rated as the No. 2 offensive tackle and a top-10 overall player nationally by multiple recruiting services, his blend of size, strength, and agility makes him a rare prospect. Scouts rave about his ability to dominate in both run blocking and pass protection, with a high football IQ and a relentless motor that sets him apart.
Tennessee fans have reason to be optimistic. The Volunteers are continuing to build momentum on the recruiting trail, and Aguilar’s commitment signals to other elite recruits that Knoxville is a destination for top talent. He joins an already strong class that includes four-star quarterback Malik Jefferson and wide receiver Jamari Brooks, positioning Tennessee as a legitimate contender for a top-five national recruiting ranking.
Head coach Josh Heupel, who has been instrumental in revitalizing the program since taking over in 2021, praised Aguilar’s character and commitment to excellence. “Joey is everything we look for in a Tennessee Volunteer,” Heupel said in a statement. “He’s an elite athlete with the work ethic and mindset to become a leader on and off the field. We’re thrilled to welcome him to Rocky Top.”
Aguilar’s decision also underscores the importance of relationships in the recruiting process. Sources close to the recruitment noted the bond between Aguilar and Tennessee’s offensive line coach Glen Elarbee as a major factor. Elarbee’s reputation for developing NFL-caliber linemen played a key role in tipping the scales in Tennessee’s favor.
