Joey Aguilar, a rookie quarterback for the Jacksonville Jaguars, has turned his off‑season into a whirlwind of community outreach and personal reflection. The former Tennessee Vol is running a three‑city youth football camp across the state, using the platform to mentor kids and give back to the neighborhoods that shaped him.
A Tattooed Path
Aguilar commemorated his football journey with a tattoo on his left leg, a permanent reminder of the highs and lows that have defined his career. From community college stints at City College of San Francisco and Diablo Valley College to a breakthrough season at Appalachian State and a transfer to UCLA, the road to Tennessee was anything but conventional.
After a tumor surgery in January, Aguilar returned to the field and posted a 67.3 percent completion rate, throwing for 3,565 yards and 24 touchdowns while also rushing for 101 yards and four scores. His performance earned him a spot on the Jaguars' roster, where he signed a standard three‑year rookie deal worth $3.1 million on April 26.
Fighting for a Spot
Behind franchise quarterback Trevor Lawrence and veteran Nick Mullens, Aguilar is competing for the third quarterback position. The competition is fierce, but the former Vol embraces the challenge, viewing each practice as an opportunity to prove his worth and to inspire the next generation of players.
The youth camp, organized in partnership with FlexWork Sports, reflects Aguilar's belief that success on the field starts with strong community ties. He repeatedly emphasizes perseverance, noting that his own path — filled with setbacks and unexpected turns — serves as a blueprint for hard work and resilience.
Looking Ahead
As the Jaguars trim their roster, Aguilar remains focused on making the 53‑man squad while continuing to impact the community that supported him. Whether on the practice field or the camp sidelines, his goal is clear: earn a place in the NFL and use that platform to lift others along the way.