A Tattoo That Tells a Story
Joey Aguilar carries a permanent reminder of his football odyssey inked on his skin, a collage of moments that map his rise from a modest high school prospect to a professional hopeful.
The tattoo chronicles his stint with the Tennessee Volunteers, his breakout at Appalachian State, and the gritty grind that defined his college career.
A Deal and a Battle for a Spot
After going undrafted, Aguilar signed a $3.1 million contract with the Jacksonville Jaguars, positioning himself as a contender for the third quarterback slot behind Trevor Lawrence and Nick Mullens.
He now shares the locker room with Carter Bradley and rookie Nico Iamaleava, each vying for the limited spots on the roster.
From Underdog to Volunteer
His college trajectory began as a zero‑star recruit at City College of San Francisco, surged at Appalachian State, and culminated with a transfer to Tennessee where he posted a 67.3% completion rate, throwing for 3,565 yards and 24 touchdowns in a single season.
That lone year with the Vols cemented his reputation as a clutch performer and opened the door to professional interest.
Overcoming Injury
A benign tumor diagnosed in January required surgery, but Aguilar returned to the field with renewed focus, using the setback as fuel for his preparation.
The procedure underscored his commitment to perseverance, a theme he repeatedly shares with younger players.
Community Outreach and Mentorship
Beyond the gridiron, Aguilar emphasizes community, having organized a youth football camp in Knoxville as part of a three‑city tour that also touched his hometown of Kingsport and Chattanooga.
He speaks often about perseverance, telling the campers that every setback can become a stepping stone when paired with hard work.
Now, as he looks toward the upcoming season, Aguilar’s story is not just about a tattoo or a contract, but about the relentless pursuit of a dream that began on a modest field in Tennessee.