The quarterback position in the 2026 NFL Draft basically consists of Fernando Mendoza, the obvious first pick for the Raiders, followed by Ty Simpson, likely going somewhere in the late first or early second round. At least this duo will be the only ones to hear their names repeated often throughout the process. However, there are a couple of other intriguing options for teams looking to add a passer at a low cost, whether it’s for depth or to add competition to a thin room. One of the lesser-talked-about names that may have more interest from the league than from pundits is Joey Aguilar. Possessing a good frame with some quality traits, Aguilar may have more fans in scouting circles than he does within the talking-heads echo chamber.
Let’s take a look at what Joey Aguilar may have to offer a team willing to take a chance on him.
Measurables:
Height: 6’3″
Weight: 229 pounds
Arms: 31.75″
Hands: 9.625″
School: Tennessee
Position: Quarterback
Joey Aguilar NFL Draft Overview
Aguilar began his collegiate journey at Diablo Valley Community College, where he developed as a dual-threat passer before transferring to Appalachian State in 2023. He immediately made an impact, earning second-team All-Sun Belt honors and Sun Belt Newcomer of the Year. Joey set multiple school records that season, throwing for 3,757 yards and a program-record 33 touchdowns while adding 249 rushing yards and three scores. In 2024, he posted 3,003 yards and 23 touchdowns while growing into the role of team leader.
Aguilar transferred to Tennessee for the 2025 season and started all 13 games for the Volunteers. He completed 272-of-404 passes (67.3%) for 3,565 yards, 24 touchdowns, and 10 interceptions, and added four rushing touchdowns. Joey showed he could handle the jump to the SEC, executing the offense and delivering under pressure. He played much of the 2025 season dealing with a benign shoulder tumor that affected some of his throwing motion and power. After a successful surgery to remove it in January, Aguilar was able to throw at Tennessee’s pro day and displayed no issues from recovery.
Strengths
Compact, durable frame that can absorb heavy contact
Can pick apart zone defenses
Displays adequate patience and pocket presence
Would prefer to climb the pocket than flee it
Produces a receiver-friendly catchable ball on deep routes
Handles pressure well
Shows the ability to still connect accurately on the move
Weaknesses
Quarterback-friendly offense kept his completion percentage inflated
Anticipation accuracy runs hot and cold
Will force receivers to move out of their route or adjust
Has shown the willingness to simply chuck it up and trust his receivers too often
Needs to improve progression recognition
Projection: Day 3
Best Fits: New York Jets, Pittsburgh Steelers, Arizona Cardinals, Carolina Panthers, Detroit Lions, San Francisco 49ers
Bottom Line on Joey Aguilar
If there were a bold statement to be made about Joey Aguilar’s NFL projection, it would simply read “future starter.” However, there is enough raw talent here to work with that it’s not unreasonable to suggest Aguilar could ascend to part-time starter or bridge quarterback if drafted into the right situation. His physical profile is similar to that of Chad Henne, giving him good enough measurables to land on a roster to begin his professional journey. It will be his growth and development within his new surroundings that will determine his ability to stick long enough to become a competent pro.
When Aguilar is on, he displays good timing, anticipation, awareness, and the ability to evenly distribute the ball throughout the offense. Consistency is going to be the primary thing he needs to acquire to have a lasting career. Because when his game chills, the ball tends to stray from the mark and create too many poor angles for receivers to adjust to. The five tools that every quarterback should possess at a high level are simple throwing accuracy, anticipation accuracy, ball placement, touch to arc, and throwing power. Joey has enough of all five to be worthy of consideration in this draft, but not at a high enough level to suggest he can be ready to compete within the timeframe of his rookie contract.
More often than not, a young passer’s career arc is determined by his landing spot. With the right coaching staff in the right situation, Joey Aguilar should be able to carve out a meaningful role in the NFL for an extended period of time.