The Vols will kick off spring practice on March 16 with a three-man competition at quarterback. MacIntyre, a former four-star recruit, may have a slight edge after spending a year in coach Josh Heupel's offensive system, while five-star recruit Brandon enrolled early and is ready to challenge despite needing to learn the offense.
Staub, who transferred from Colorado, brings more playing experience but may have a lower ceiling after completing 30 of 55 passes for 427 yards, three touchdowns and four interceptions last season. Aguilar's eligibility denial means Tennessee will have its fifth different starting QB in five seasons, after he led the SEC with 3,565 passing yards in 2025.